When to plant Shiso in Boyd County, KY
Plant Shiso in Boyd County from April 27 to May 18 in spring. Boyd County sits in USDA Zone 7a, with last frost around April 20 and first frost on October 23.
When to Plant Shiso in Boyd County, KY
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.
Boyd County, Kentucky is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 20 and the first fall frost is October 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 186 days.
At an elevation of 2,124 feet, Boyd County receives approximately 46.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Shiso during the growing season.
Boyd County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.5
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 | — | 3.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 3.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 4.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 3.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 3.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Boyd County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Shiso Planting Timeline — Boyd County, KY
Shiso Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 2 | Mar 2 – Mar 16 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 4 | May 4 – May 18 |
| Direct Sow | April 27 | Apr 27 – May 18 |
| Harvest | June 29 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 |
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
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7a
📆 Growing Season
186 days in Boyd County
Growing Tips for Boyd 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 Boyd County, KY?
Boyd County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 20. Plan your Shiso planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Boyd County, KY?
Boyd County, Kentucky is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 20 and first fall frost is October 23.
When should I plant Shiso in Boyd County, KY?
In Boyd County, KY, plant Shiso after the last frost (around April 20) and before the first frost (around October 23). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Boyd County, KY for Shiso?
Boyd County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Shiso grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Shiso grow in Boyd County's climate?
Yes — Shiso grows well in Boyd County's temperate climate. Boyd County averages a 186-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 20 and first frost around October 23.
Your Boyd County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Boyd County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.