Cilantro is best planted in the early spring but also can be started in the fall.
It grows quickly, often yielding itsfirst harvestof leaves within 30 days.
Its seeds will be ready for harvest closer to three months from planting.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
It can handle either full sun or partial shade but tends to prefer some afternoon shade in warmer climates.
Container growth also is a good option for cilantro.
Thin seedlings to about 6 to 8 inches apart.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
Rows of cilantro plants should be at least a foot apart to provide good airflow.
A support structure shouldnt be necessary.
Too much heat and direct sun can cause theplant to bolt(go to seed) early.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
The plant may bolt early if the soil retains too much moisture.
Water
Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy as seeds germinate and seedlings develop.
Roughly 1 inch of water per week is ideal for seedlings.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
More mature plants dont require as much water, but they still like moist soil.
Just check that their roots are never waterlogged or root rot can set in.
If it’s too hot the plant can bolt easily.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
However, though cilantro is a cool-weather herb, it is still frost-sensitive.
Keep row covers handy to protect your plants if unseasonably cool weather is predicted.
Cilantro also struggles in high humidity and climates that get a lot of rain.
They both have thin green stems with flat leaves.
However, cilantro leaves are typically more curved while parsley leaves are more pointed.
Avoid taking more than a third of the leaves at a time.
A pot thats at least 8 inches wide and deep is best for cilantro.
ensure it has drainage holes.
An unglazed clay container is ideal because it will allow excess soil moisture to evaporate through its walls.
Pruning
You are essentially pruning your cilantro plant whenever you harvest leaves.
However, if youre hoping to harvest seeds, youll want to permit the flower stalk to grow.
How to Grow Cilantro From Seed
Cilantro often will self-seed in the garden andpropagate itself.
You also can harvest and save seeds for later plantings.
The time to do this is in the summer as the seed heads dry out on the plants.
Due to cilantros sensitive roots, repotting is best avoided.
Instead, see to it you choose a suitable growing container for your seeds right from the start.
However, some common pests, includingaphidsand leaf hoppers, might affect the plants.
Use aninsecticidal soapthats safe for edible plants if you spot any pests.
Yes, cilantro will grow back after it’s cut.
Grow cilantro in full sun though it may tolerate very light shade.
Cilantro is an easy herb to grow as long as it has mild temperatures and adequate sun and moisture.
