When to Plant Shiso in Avery County, NC
Shiso (perilla) is a fragrant Japanese herb with large, ruffled leaves in green or purple varieties. It has a unique flavor combining mint, basil, and anise.
Avery County, North Carolina is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 12 and the first fall frost is October 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 194 days.
At an elevation of 914 feet, Avery County receives approximately 43.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Shiso during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Shiso, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Avery County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Shiso Planting Timeline — Avery County, NC
Shiso Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 22 | Feb 22 – Mar 8 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 26 | Apr 26 – May 10 |
| Direct Sow | April 19 | Apr 19 – May 10 |
| Harvest | June 21 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
50–70 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 6a
Growing Season
194 days
Growing Tips for Avery County
Direct sow after last frost or start indoors. Both green and red varieties are available. Pinch tips to encourage bushiness. Self-sows prolifically; deadhead to control.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Shiso in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Shiso in Avery County, NC?
Avery County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 12. Plan your Shiso planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Avery County, NC?
Avery County, North Carolina is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 12 and first fall frost is October 23.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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