Product Review

A member of the mint family used in sashimi and sushi preparations. Considered a staple of Asian gardens. Perilla makes a wonderful garden plant, thanks to both its physical beauty and culinary uses. Great for containers! Perilla frutescens Perilla has a reputation as being difficult to germinate primarily due to the fact that Perilla seed goes through a dormant period after harvest. This dormant period can last for one year or more. Our seeds have been aged past the typical dormant cycle. Perilla seeds are quite hard and very sturdy. You can just seed them in your garden where you want them to grow, but they may take a long time to germinate (3 to 4 weeks). To ensure proper germination soak them in water for 24 hours before sowing. I then pour them on the bed, water and all. You can cover them very lightly as they need some light to germinate. You should see germination within 3 weeks. Keep them well-watered. You can also sow Perilla indoors to give them a bit of a head start. I start them using Jiffy pellets, under lights, just like I am starting tomatoes. Again, cover very lightly. It is very important that the seeds do not dry out!