Growing cilantro from seed is a rewarding experience that can provide you with fresh herbs for your cooking. I’ve been growing cilantro for years, and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned with you. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to successfully grow cilantro from seed.
Why Grow Cilantro From Seed?
Cilantro is a versatile herb that’s used in a variety of cuisines, from Mexican to Indian dishes. Growing it from seed gives you the freshest leaves possible, and it’s often more satisfying than buying a plant from the store.
Plus, cilantro tends to have a short shelf life once harvested, so having a steady supply in your garden ensures you always have some on hand.
Choosing the Right Seeds
The first step in growing cilantro is selecting the right seeds. I’ve learned that there are different varieties of cilantro, each with its characteristics. Some are better suited for warm climates, while others thrive in cooler conditions.
Look for seeds labeled as “slow-bolting” if you live in a warmer region. These seeds are less likely to flower quickly, allowing you more time to harvest the leaves. On the other hand, if you’re in a cooler area, most cilantro seeds will work well.
Preparing the Soil
Cilantro grows best in well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. Before planting, I usually prepare the soil by mixing it in compost or aged manure to improve its fertility. The ideal pH for cilantro is between 6.2 and 6.8, which is slightly acidic.
If you’re unsure about your soil’s pH, it might be worth testing it. You can find simple pH test kits at garden centers or online. Once you know the pH, you can make adjustments if needed by adding lime to raise it or sulfur to lower it.
Planting the Seeds
Cilantro seeds are two seeds encased in a hard shell, so you’ll want to gently crush the seed coat to encourage germination. I usually place the seeds in a plastic bag and lightly press them with a rolling pin.
Once the seeds are ready, plant them directly into the soil. Cilantro doesn’t transplant well, so it’s best to sow the seeds where you want the plants to grow. I space the seeds about 1 to 2 inches apart and cover them with a thin layer of soil, roughly 1/4 inch deep.
Watering the Seeds
Watering is crucial at this stage. I like to water the soil thoroughly after planting the seeds and then keep it consistently moist until the seeds germinate. This usually takes about 7 to 10 days, depending on the conditions. Be careful not to overwater, as cilantro doesn’t like soggy soil. If you’re unsure, it’s better to water lightly more often rather than soaking the soil.
Providing the Right Conditions
Cilantro prefers cool weather, so it’s best to plant it in the early spring or fall, depending on your climate. If you’re in a region with hot summers, I suggest planting in a spot that gets partial shade during the day to prevent the plant from bolting too quickly.
I’ve found that cilantro grows well in temperatures between 50°F and 85°F (10°C to 29°C). If the temperature rises above this range, the plant might start to bolt, which means it will go to seed and stop producing leaves.
Thinning the Seedlings
Once the seeds have germinated and the seedlings are about 2 inches tall, it’s time to thin them out. I typically space the plants about 6 inches apart, which gives them enough room to grow without competing for nutrients.
Thinning might seem like you’re wasting plants, but it’s essential for healthy growth. The removed seedlings can be used in salads or as a garnish, so nothing goes to waste.
Caring for Your Cilantro Plants
Caring for cilantro is relatively simple. I water the plants regularly, aiming to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and keep the roots cool, which is particularly helpful in warmer climates.
Fertilizing isn’t usually necessary if you’ve prepared the soil well, but if the plants seem to be struggling, a light feeding with a balanced fertilizer can give them a boost.
Harvesting Cilantro
Cilantro can be harvested as soon as the leaves are large enough to use, usually about 3 to 4 weeks after planting. I like to harvest the outer leaves first, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. This way, I can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh cilantro throughout the season.
When harvesting, I use sharp scissors to cut the stems about 1 to 2 inches above the soil. Avoid pulling the leaves off by hand, as this can damage the plant.
Dealing With Bolting
Bolting is one of the most common challenges when growing cilantro. It happens when the plant starts to flower and set seeds, which usually means the end of leaf production. I’ve found that bolting is more likely to occur in hot weather or if the plants are stressed.
To delay bolting, I try to keep the plants well-watered and provide some shade during the hottest part of the day. If your cilantro does bolt, you can still use the seeds (known as coriander) in cooking or save them for planting next season.
Growing Cilantro Indoors
If you don’t have garden space or want to grow cilantro year-round, growing it indoors is a great option. I’ve had success growing cilantro on a sunny windowsill or under grow lights. Here’s how you should grow cilantro indoors:
- Choose a pot at least 8 inches deep with drainage holes.
- Use a well-draining potting mix.
- Place the pot in a sunny window or under grow lights.
- Keep the soil consistently moist.
- Provide good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Ensure you place the pots in a spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. If you’re using grow lights, keep them on for 14 to 16 hours a day to mimic the sun.
Common Problems and Solutions
Here are some common issues you might encounter when growing cilantro and how to solve them:
- Bolting: Cilantro naturally bolts quickly, especially in hot weather. To delay bolting, keep plants cool and harvest regularly.
- Yellow leaves: This can be a sign of overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Ensure proper drainage and consider adding a balanced fertilizer.
- Slow growth: This is often due to cool temperatures or lack of sunlight. Be patient in cool weather and ensure plants get at least 6 hours of sun daily.
- Bitter taste: Cilantro can become bitter when it starts to bolt. Harvest leaves regularly and plant new seeds every few weeks for a continuous supply.
Companion Planting
Cilantro grows well with certain other plants. Consider planting it near:
- Tomatoes: Cilantro can deter pests that attack tomatoes.
- Spinach: These plants have similar growing requirements.
- Basil: Another herb that complements cilantro in the garden and recipes.
Avoid planting cilantro near fennel, as they can negatively affect each other’s growth.
Saving Seeds for Next Season
One of the joys of growing cilantro is saving seeds for the next planting season. If you allow some of your plants to bolt, you’ll be rewarded with coriander seeds that you can either use in cooking or save for next year’s garden.
I usually let the seeds dry on the plant and then harvest them by cutting the seed heads and placing them in a paper bag. Once the seeds are fully dry, they can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Enjoying Your Homegrown Cilantro
There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh cilantro that you’ve grown yourself. Whether you’re adding it to salsa, sprinkling it over a curry, or mixing it into a salad, the flavor is unmatched.
Growing cilantro from seed is a simple and rewarding process. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy a steady supply of this versatile herb in your kitchen. I hope this guide has given you the confidence to start growing cilantro in your garden.
