Cilantro

5 Key Steps to Grow Cilantro

• Sow Seeds Directly: Cilantro doesn’t transplant well due to its long taproot, so sow seeds directly in the garden or in a container. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil. Cilantro prefers cool weather, so plant it in early spring or late summer for the best results.

• Spacing & Thinning: Once seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them to about 6 inches apart to give each plant room to grow. Thinning helps promote healthy growth and prevents overcrowding, which can stunt the plants.

• Light & Temperature: Cilantro likes full sun but can benefit from partial shade in hot climates. It grows best in temperatures between 50-85°F (10-29°C). Too much heat can cause it to bolt (flower and go to seed) quickly, making the leaves bitter.

• Watering & Soil: Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Cilantro has shallow roots, so regular watering is essential, especially in dry conditions. Mulch can help retain soil moisture and keep roots cool, which helps slow down bolting.

• Harvesting: Harvest cilantro leaves when the plants are 6-8 inches tall. Snip off individual leaves or cut entire stems at the base. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and delays bolting. If the plant does flower, you can also collect the seeds, known as coriander.

Tips for Success

• Succession Planting: To have a continuous supply of fresh cilantro, sow seeds every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season.
• Prevent Bolting: If growing cilantro in warm climates, provide some afternoon shade to help prevent it from bolting too quickly.
• Use Fresh: Cilantro has a relatively short shelf life, so use leaves fresh soon after harvest to get the best flavor.