Introduction
Perilla is a member of the mint family, and it’s easy to grow in most climates. Start by planting the seeds in moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Perilla prefers warm weather, so it’s best to sow the seeds after the last frost of spring. Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them out so that they are spaced about 12 inches apart. Perilla doesn’t require a lot of fertilizer, but you can give it an occasional boost with compost or manure. Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. When the plants are about 6 inches tall, you can begin harvesting the leaves for use in cooking or as a decorative element in salads and other dishes. With a little care, you can enjoy a bountiful crop of perilla all season long.
Soil
It has a distinct flavor that some likened to mint or licorice. If you’re interested in growing this herb, you’ll need to start with a well-composted potting mix. Perilla prefers slightly acidic soil, so be sure to adjust your mix accordingly. You’ll also need to provide plenty of drainages; Perilla does not like wet feet.
Once you have your potting mix prepared, sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and water lightly. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and thin the seedlings to about 8 inches apart once they emerge. With a little care, you’ll be able to enjoy fresh Perilla all season long.
Watering
The plant grows best in moist, well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade. In the wild, perilla typically grows in wet meadows, along streams, or in other moist areas. When growing perilla at home, it is important to provide the plant with adequate moisture. Perilla prefers evenly moist soil and will not tolerate drought conditions.
Water the plant deeply and regularly during the growing season. Allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out between watering. Providing perilla with adequate water will help to prevent leaf drops and enhance essential oil production. For best results, grow perilla in an area that receives full sun for at least 6 hours each day.
Flowering
Perilla is a flowering plant that can be easily grown in most climates. The first step is to choose a location that receives full sun and has well-drained soil. Perilla plants can grow to be quite large, so it is important to give them plenty of space to spread out. Once you have selected a site, simply sow the seeds directly into the ground in early spring.
Be sure to keep the area watered, as Perilla plants require moist conditions to thrive. In summer, the plants will produce small purple flowers that are very fragrant. If you would like to dry the flowers for use in potpourri or other crafts, simply cut the stems and hang them upside down in a warm, dry place. With a little care, you can enjoy the beauty of Perilla flowers in your own garden.
Fruiting
Perilla plants will flower in summer, and the flowers will eventually turn into small fruits. The fruits are edible and have a milder flavor than the leaves. You can enjoy them fresh or use them in cooking. When the plants are finished fruiting, cut them back to encourage new growth. With proper care, perilla plants will thrive and provide you with an abundance of delicious leaves and fruits.
Propagation
To grow Perilla from seed, start the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Sow the seeds on the surface of moistened potting mix, and press them gently into the soil. Keep the soil moist but not saturated, and provide bright indirect light. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them so that they are spaced 8-12 inches apart. When they are 4-6 inches tall, transplant them outdoors.
Perilla can also be propagated from stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and should be taken from healthy non-flowering stems. Place the cuttings in moistened potting mix, and keep them in bright indirect light. Roots should develop within 4-6 weeks. Once the roots are established, transplant the cuttings into pots.
Pests and diseases
Growing Perilla can be fairly easy as long as you have the proper conditions and knowledge. This plant prefers partial to full sun and moist, well-drained soils; however, it is adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions. It is also important to note that Perilla is susceptible to several pests and diseases.
Aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites are all common pests that can attack this plant. As for diseases, Alternaria leaf spot and downy mildew are two of the most common problems growers face. However, by taking proper precautions and knowing what to look for, you can successfully grow Perilla without too much trouble.
Irritation to pets
The plant can be an irritant to pets, so care should be taken if you have animals that spend time in your garden.
