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Pruning guide

How to prune shiso

Best time
Pinch tips once plant reaches 20-30 cm; remove flower spikes throughout summer as they emerge
How often
Ongoing throughout the growing season; treat as annual and resow each year
Technique
Nip out the central growing tip above a pair of leaves when the plant is 20–30 cm tall to promote side branching and more leaf area. Thereafter, pinch out any flower spikes at their base as soon as you spot them — this is the most important step for prolonging a useful harvest.

More shiso care

Pruning shiso — FAQ

When should I prune shiso?

Pinch tips once plant reaches 20-30 cm; remove flower spikes throughout summer as they emerge. Nip out the central growing tip above a pair of leaves when the plant is 20–30 cm tall to promote side branching and more leaf area. Thereafter, pinch out any flower spikes at their base as soon as you spot them — this is the most important step for prolonging a useful harvest.

How often does shiso need pruning?

Ongoing throughout the growing season; treat as annual and resow each year. Shiso is a fast-growing annual that bolts readily in long days, turning bitter and setting seed. Pinch out flower spikes as soon as they appear to extend the harvest of flavourful leaves. Removing the main stem tip once the plant reaches 20–30 cm encourages a bushier habit. Harvest regularly from the top — this itself acts as pruning.

How do you prune shiso?

Nip out the central growing tip above a pair of leaves when the plant is 20–30 cm tall to promote side branching and more leaf area. Thereafter, pinch out any flower spikes at their base as soon as you spot them — this is the most important step for prolonging a useful harvest.