Growing Microgreens Starter Guide

Shiso - Red Organic- Microgreens Seeds

Growing Organic Red Shiso Microgreen Seeds

Presoak the shiso seeds for 12-24 hours in cool, not hot water. Prepare a level-growing surface of a coco coir or hydroponic medium by lightly patting it down and misting it with water until it is completely wet. Sprinkle the Red Shiso seeds densely across the surface. Use a seed shaker or clean a re-used spice jar with holes to spread them out. Water them in with a mister or spray bottle. Place a second black tray on top of the seeds.

Put the tray in a dark location for 8 days. After they have all germinated and look plump (around 4 days), lightly spritz them with water. Return to the dark location or under a black tray until the total blackout time is reached. Water heavily from underneath. Move your seedlings to the sun or under a grow light. Water the tray regularly but allow the soil some time to dry between waterings. The amount of time between waterings will be different for everyone based on the room temperature and your watering habits. Avoid too much airflow. Generally, if growing your seedlings in the sun with a shallow tray, you will have to water them much more frequently than growing them under a grow light in a deep tray. Check the bottom tray every day and refill with 1-2 cups of water when dry.

The most success has been achieved with a heat mat set to maintain the soil temperature around 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Shiso likes to be kept moister than other microgreens but away from excessive light. Do not allow water to pool for long periods of time. The tiny seedlings don’t drink much water, but they do like moisture.

Benefits of Organic Red Shiso Microgreens

Red Shiso is rich in numerous vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, iron, calcium, and vitamin A. It also has plentiful antioxidants, such as flavonoids which have been shown to prevent and reduce the risk of cancer. Shiso leaves are also a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, which are both critical parts of a balanced diet.

Perilla frutescens, also known as perilla, purple mint, Chinese basil, and beefsteak plant. According to the ASPCA, red shiso is not toxic to dogs, cats, or horses. However, animals may experience gastrointestinal upset if they consume large amounts of the plant. Consult a veterinarian with any questions.

Culinary Tips

Around 15 days after planting, the seedlings will be a few inches tall and ready for consumption! Depending on how mature you want your seedlings, you may want to harvest them before or after that time. Slice the greens above the soil and root mass with a sharp knife about a .5 inch up. Cutting above the soil can limit the need for washing your greens, which reduces their shelf life.

Add these delicious greens to salads, sushi, sandwiches, soups, and smoothies! Eat them fresh as a snack or garnish a dish with them. They pair well with a variety of savory dishes due to their herby flavor.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Red shiso is a delicious addition to any kitchen arsenal. The unique, herby flavor is unmatched in any other microgreen, and their dense nutritional content is hard to beat as well!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Organic Red Shiso Seeds Per Package:

1 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 25,000 Seeds

4 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 100,000 Seeds

1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 400,000 Seeds

5 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 2,000,000 Seeds

25 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 10,000,000 Seeds