When it comes to planting cilantro seeds, also known as coriander seeds in cooking, it is actually recommended to crack them before planting. This process helps to increase the germination rate and improve the chances of successful seedling growth.
Cilantro seeds, or coriander seeds, consist of two seeds encased in a husk. The husk is hard, round, and typically light brown or grey in color. By cracking the seeds, you break open the husk and expose the inner seeds, allowing them to germinate more easily.
Cracking the coriander seeds can be done manually by gently pressing them with your fingers or using a mortar and pestle to lightly crush them. It is important to be gentle and avoid crushing the seeds too forcefully, as this can damage the inner seeds.
By cracking the seeds before planting, you are helping to overcome a natural defense mechanism of the seeds. The hard husk protects the inner seeds and can prevent water absorption, making it difficult for germination to occur. By cracking the husk, you are breaking down this barrier and allowing water to penetrate and reach the inner seeds.
In my personal experience, I have found that cracking coriander seeds before planting significantly improves the germination rate. When I first started growing cilantro, I planted the seeds without cracking them and noticed that only a few seedlings emerged. However, after learning about the benefits of cracking the seeds, I started doing so and noticed a significant increase in seedling growth.
To summarize, cracking coriander seeds before planting is highly recommended to improve the germination rate. By breaking open the hard husk, you allow water to reach the inner seeds and enhance the chances of successful seedling growth. So, if you’re planning to plant cilantro seeds, take a few extra minutes to crack them before sowing, and you’ll likely see better results.
