Cilantro
Coriandrum sativum. Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a member of the Apiaceae family along with dill, fennel, parsley, celery, and carrots. Cilantro is valued for its pungent leaves and seeds that add depth and flavor to various cuisines. It comes in several varieties, including lemon cilantro and slow-bolting varieties. Cilantro plants typically grow in compact, bushy forms.
Starting Seeds
Cilantro seeds germinate best in warm soil temperatures, with the ideal range for germination falling between 60°F (15°C) and 75°F (24°C). However, the optimal temperature is typically around 70°F to 75°F (21°C to 24°C).
Direct sow in mild climates and for succession sowings later in the season. Otherwise start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks prior to your last frost date.
When to Plant Out
Cilantro should be transplanted outdoors after the last expected frost date once the weather has warmed, and the soil temperatures consistently reach at least 50°F (10°C) or warmer.
Light
Cilantro grow best in full sunlight: at least 6-8 hours a day. Cilantro can tolerate part-shade (4-6 hours a day) especially in hotter climates, although growth may be slower.
Space
Seeds can be sown every 1-2″. Thin to 6-12″ apart. Be sure to check the seed packet for specifics on your variety’s size.
Temperature
Cilantro is a cool weather crop, with ideal daytime temperatures ranging between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C). While cilantro plants can tolerate cooler nighttime temperatures, they perform best when nighttime temperatures remain above 50°F (10°C). Cilantro is hardy to Zone 8, surviving down to 10°F (-12°C) for established plants, but protection from snow may be necessary.
Water
Keep the soil consistently moist. Water at the base of the plants to keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of diseases.
Pruning
Regular harvesting will encourage more growth. Remove flowers to refocus the plant’s energy into foliage and prevent bolting, which can turn cilantro leaves bitter and signals the end of the plants life.
Harvesting
Use a pair of scissors or garden shears to snip off the desired amount of stems from the outside of the plant, leaving the inside stems to continue growing and bushing out.
Propagation
Cilantro is commonly propagated from seeds. When saving seeds from cilantro plants, it’s important to ensure that they have not been cross-pollinated. Different varieties of cilantro will cross-pollinate each other.
Other Considerations
Cilantro is suitable for container growing and can be grown indoors during winter for continuous harvests. If planted outside during the warmer months of the year, cilantro readily bolts. Succession sowing every 2-4 weeks will ensure a continuous harvest.