When to plant Shiso in Jefferson County, IL
Jefferson County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Plant Shiso between April 16 (after last frost on April 9) and May 7.
When to Plant Shiso in Jefferson County, IL
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.
Jefferson County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is October 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 194 days.
At an elevation of 509 feet, Jefferson County receives approximately 34 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Shiso during the growing season.
Jefferson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Shiso Planting Timeline — Jefferson County, IL
Shiso Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 19 | Feb 19 – Mar 5 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 23 | Apr 23 – May 7 |
| Direct Sow | April 16 | Apr 16 – May 7 |
| Harvest | June 18 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 |
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
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
194 days in Jefferson County
Growing Tips for Jefferson 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 Jefferson County, IL?
Jefferson County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Shiso planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Jefferson County, IL?
Jefferson County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 20.
When should I plant Shiso in Jefferson County, IL?
In Jefferson County, IL, plant Shiso after the last frost (around April 9) and before the first frost (around October 20). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Jefferson County, IL for Shiso?
Jefferson County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Shiso grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Shiso grow in Jefferson County's climate?
Yes — Shiso grows well in Jefferson County's temperate climate. Jefferson County averages a 194-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 9 and first frost around October 20.
Your Jefferson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Jefferson County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.