How to Grow Cilantro (Coriander)

Cilantro is a great herb addition to any outdoor garden. Not only is it a relatively easy plant to grow outdoors, but it actually boasts two herbs for the price of one. The name cilantro refers to the plant's green stems and flat leaves (which are best eaten fresh) while its other common name, coriander, refers to the seeds, which are used as a common cooking spice, especially in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines. Cilantro is best planted in the early spring and will grow quickly throughout the summer, often yielding its first harvest of leaves within 30 days. Its seeds will be ready for harvest closer to three months from planting.

History of Cilantro (Coriander)

Cilantro has been used for many centuries in the cooking of Mexico, India, Africa, Spain, Russia, China, many areas of Asia - especially Thailand, and the Middle East. It is thought to be native to North Africa or the Middle East. In addition to its many culinary uses, cilantro seeds were used medicinally, especially as a sleep and digestion aid.

Varieties: 

• Long Standing
• Slo Bolt
• Leisure

How to Plant Cilantro

Many gardeners like the instant gratification (in growing terms) of planting cilantro seedlings. Start them after the last frost, spacing plants 6 inches apart; if planting rows, keep rows 12 inches apart. If you'd like to grow more cilantro next year, choose a good spot and let the plants flower and self-seed, rather than harvesting the whole plant.

Cilantro Seeds

In cooking, cilantro seeds are called coriander. The “seeds” are actually two cilantro seeds encased in a husk. The husk is hard, round, and is light brown or grey in color. Before you plant them in the ground, you need to prepare the cilantro seeds to increase the chances that they will germinate. Gently crush the seed husk holding the two seeds together. Soak the cilantro seeds in water for 24 to 48 hours. Remove from the water and allow to dry.

Follow these tips to ensure that you properly care for your cilantro plant:

Timing:

Plant cilantro in the late spring (two weeks after the last frost) or early fall to avoid hot temperatures. Cilantro planted during the summer heat will have a bitter flavor, and last for a shorter period of time. Check your USDA Plant Hardiness Zone to find out the optimal time for cilantro planting — gardeners in USDA Zones 8, 9, and 10 should opt for fall sowing, for example.

Soil and Watering:

Cilantro grows best in a neutral soil pH of 6.2 to 6.8, but it's fairly tolerant and will grow in just about any rich soil. You can find out your soil's pH levels by completing an at-home soil test. Once your cilantro is planted, make sure the soil is moist yet well-drained.

Weeds:

Mulch around the cilantro plants as soon as they are visible above the soil to prevent weeds. When in doubt, use a weed killer.

Pests and Diseases: The most common problems for cilantro are fungal wilt, leafhoppers, aphids, whiteflies, and mildew. Control insects by using antibacterial soap, and clean up debris or dead leaves to combat wilt and mildew.

Bolting:

If you don't time it right, cilantro can bolt before you have a chance to harvest. To prevent bolting, harvest leaves often, and keep the plant shaded and watered. For a season's worth of cilantro, stagger plantings every three to four weeks.

Harvesting: 

Cilantro leaves are ready to harvest 45 to 70 days after seeding. Cut exterior leaves once they reach 4 to 6 inches long. Or, cut the whole plant about 1 to 2 inches above the soil level to use both small and large leaves.