When to Plant Shiso in Weber County, UT
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.
Weber County, Utah is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 26 and the first fall frost is September 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 118 days.
At an elevation of 6,211 feet, Weber County receives approximately 18.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Shiso during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Shiso successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Weber County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-7.7
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.
Soil Compatibility in Weber County
How your county's soil matches Shiso's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.6–7.7) is more alkaline than Shiso prefers (5.5–7.0). Add sulfur or peat moss to lower pH.
Soil Texture
The loam soil in Weber County is excellent for Shiso — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.3%). Annual compost additions will help Shiso.
How to Plant Shiso
Succession Planting Shiso
Sow every 5.7 weeks. Last sowing by Jul 13 to harvest before frost.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Shiso Planting Timeline — Weber County, UT
Shiso Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 7 | Apr 7 – Apr 21 |
| Transplant Outdoors | June 9 | Jun 9 – Jun 23 |
| Direct Sow | June 2 | Jun 2 – Jun 23 |
| Harvest | August 4 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | — |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| July | — |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · 1-2 times/week
📅 Days to Maturity
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: too_alkaline
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6a
📆 Growing Season
118 days in Weber County
Growing Tips for Shiso in Weber County
Direct sow Shiso outdoors after May 26 in Weber County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Weber County receives only 18" of rain annually. Shiso needs consistent moisture — install drip irrigation or water deeply 2-3 times per week.
General growing tips
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 Weber County, UT?
Weber County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of May 26. Plan your Shiso planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Weber County, UT?
Weber County, Utah is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 26 and first fall frost is September 21.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Weber County gardeners in Zone 6a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.