Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a wonderful herb to grow in your garden or even in containers. It is a cool-season annual, which means it thrives in cooler temperatures and completes its life cycle within one year. Growing cilantro from seed is relatively quick and easy, and you can enjoy its fresh leaves and coriander seeds in a matter of weeks.
From seed to harvest, cilantro typically takes about three weeks. This fast growth rate makes it a popular choice for gardeners who want to enjoy fresh herbs without a long wait. However, it’s important to note that cilantro is known for its quick bolting tendencies. Bolting refers to the plant’s tendency to produce flowers and set seeds prematurely, which can result in a shorter lifespan for the plant.
To maximize your cilantro harvest, it’s a good idea to sow new seeds every two to three weeks. This will ensure a continuous supply of fresh leaves throughout the growing season. Additionally, regularly harvesting the outer leaves of the plant can help delay bolting and prolong the harvest period.
When sowing cilantro seeds, it’s important to choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Cilantro prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Before sowing the seeds, prepare the soil by loosening it with a garden fork or tiller and incorporating compost or aged manure.
Sow the cilantro seeds directly into the prepared soil, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. Space the seeds about 4 to 6 inches apart, as cilantro plants can grow quite bushy. Water the soil gently but thoroughly after sowing to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Cilantro seeds typically germinate within 7 to 10 days, depending on the temperature and soil conditions. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out if necessary, leaving about 6 to 8 inches of space between each plant. This will allow for proper air circulation and prevent overcrowding.
As the cilantro plants grow, you can start harvesting the leaves once they reach about 6 inches in height. Simply snip off the outer leaves with a pair of clean scissors or garden shears, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. Regularly harvesting the outer leaves will encourage the plants to bush out and promote a more abundant harvest.
In about a month and a half, cilantro plants will start producing flowers, which will eventually develop into coriander seeds. If you’re interested in harvesting coriander, allow the flowers to fully mature and dry on the plant. Once the flowers turn brown and start to fall off, you can collect the seeds by gently rubbing the flower heads between your hands. Store the coriander seeds in a cool, dry place for later use in cooking or for sowing in future plantings.
It’s worth noting that cilantro has a relatively short lifespan, especially in hot weather. As temperatures rise, cilantro plants are more prone to bolting and will quickly go to seed. To prolong the harvest, consider providing some shade or planting cilantro in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade.
Growing cilantro from seed is a rewarding experience that can yield fresh leaves and coriander seeds in just a few weeks. By sowing new seeds every 2-3 weeks, providing the right growing conditions, and regularly harvesting the outer leaves, you can enjoy a continuous supply of this flavorful herb throughout the growing season.
