When to plant Shiso in Coffee County, AL
Aim to plant Shiso in Coffee County on or after March 19; the window stays open through April 9. Coffee County's 247-day frost-free season gives you enough for a full main crop and a short fall succession.
When to Plant Shiso in Coffee County, AL
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.
Coffee County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 12 and the first fall frost is November 14, giving you a growing season of approximately 247 days.
At an elevation of 342 feet, Coffee County receives approximately 55.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Shiso may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Shiso, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Shiso root diseases.
Coffee County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Shiso
Shiso needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Shiso Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 5.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 5.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 4.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 5.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 4.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Coffee County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Shiso Planting Timeline — Coffee County, AL
Shiso Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 22 | Jan 22 – Feb 5 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 26 | Mar 26 – Apr 9 |
| Direct Sow | March 19 | Mar 19 – Apr 9 |
| Harvest | May 21 | May 21 – Jul 16 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
247 days in Coffee County
Growing Tips for Coffee 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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Shiso in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Shiso in Coffee County, AL?
Coffee County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 12. Plan your Shiso planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Coffee County, AL?
Coffee County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 12 and first fall frost is November 14.
When should I plant Shiso in Coffee County, AL?
In Coffee County, AL, plant Shiso after the last frost (around March 12) and before the first frost (around November 14). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Coffee County, AL for Shiso?
Coffee County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Shiso grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Shiso grow in Coffee County's climate?
Yes — Shiso grows well in Coffee County's temperate climate. Coffee County averages a 247-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 12 and first frost around November 14.
Your Coffee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Coffee County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.