When to Plant Shiso in Fauquier County, VA
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.
Fauquier County, Virginia is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 21 and the first fall frost is October 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 180 days.
At an elevation of 464 feet, Fauquier County receives approximately 49.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Shiso during the growing season.
Fauquier County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.7
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.
Plant Water Budget
Shiso Planting Timeline — Fauquier County, VA
Shiso Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 3 | Mar 3 – Mar 17 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 5 | May 5 – May 19 |
| Direct Sow | April 28 | Apr 28 – May 19 |
| Harvest | June 30 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | 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 7a
Growing Season
180 days
Growing Tips for Fauquier 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 Fauquier County, VA?
Fauquier County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 21. Plan your Shiso planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Fauquier County, VA?
Fauquier County, Virginia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 21 and first fall frost is October 18.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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