When to plant Shiso in Cullman County, AL
Aim to plant Shiso in Cullman County on or after April 4; the window stays open through April 25. Cullman County's 219-day frost-free season gives you enough for a full main crop and a short fall succession.
When to Plant Shiso in Cullman 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.
Cullman County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 28 and the first fall frost is November 2, giving you a growing season of approximately 219 days.
At an elevation of 347 feet, Cullman County receives approximately 53.1 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. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Shiso root diseases.
Cullman County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Shiso Planting Timeline — Cullman County, AL
Shiso Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 7 | Feb 7 – Feb 21 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 11 | Apr 11 – Apr 25 |
| Direct Sow | April 4 | Apr 4 – Apr 25 |
| Harvest | June 6 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| 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
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8a
📆 Growing Season
219 days in Cullman County
Growing Tips for Cullman 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 Cullman County, AL?
Cullman County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 28. Plan your Shiso planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Cullman County, AL?
Cullman County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 28 and first fall frost is November 2.
When should I plant Shiso in Cullman County, AL?
In Cullman County, AL, plant Shiso after the last frost (around March 28) and before the first frost (around November 2). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Cullman County, AL for Shiso?
Cullman County sits in USDA Zone 8a. Shiso grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Shiso grow in Cullman County's climate?
Yes — Shiso grows well in Cullman County's temperate climate. Cullman County averages a 219-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 28 and first frost around November 2.
Your Cullman County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Cullman County (Zone 8a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.