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Image: Tesdei/Getty ImagesCilantro, scientifically known as Coriandrum sativum, is one of the most widely used herbs worldwide, appearing in cuisines from Mexico to the Middle East and Asia. This herb belongs to the carrot family (Apiaceae) and is famous for its divisive taste—some people enjoy its zesty, slightly citrusy flavor, while others find it soapy.
Growing cilantro presents its own challenges—not only because of its distinct flavor. While it germinates quickly (sometimes ready in as little as 30 days), it has a tendency to bolt rapidly. Additionally, chefs struggle to keep cilantro fresh in the fridge for more than a day or two.
Once you perfect the technique for growing cilantro, you’ll enjoy its many benefits. Fresh cilantro is always best, and there’s nothing fresher than plucking a few stems directly from your garden. Along with basil, cilantro is one of the most rewarding herbs to grow—here, we provide you with the top tips and strategies for cultivating cilantro at home.
Ideal Season and Location for Growing Cilantro
Cilantro thrives in cool weather and needs full sunlight and well-drained soil. As Susan Mahr, a gardening expert from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, advises, cilantro prefers abundant sunlight, particularly as it matures. Choose a sunny spot in your garden, unless you live in a very hot climate—opt for a location with some afternoon shade or use pots, allowing you to move the plants to cooler areas. Excessive heat may cause cilantro to bolt (go to seed) prematurely.
For a summer or early fall harvest, the ideal time to sow cilantro seeds is early spring. Typically, cilantro requires about 100 days to complete a full growing season, although you can begin harvesting leaves as soon as 45 days, or even earlier in some cases.
To ensure flavorful leaves, avoid planting cilantro during the peak summer heat. High temperatures can cause cilantro to bolt prematurely, and when that happens, the leaves often develop a bitter taste.
Ideal Soil for Cilantro Growth
Cilantro thrives in soil that most vegetables and leafy greens enjoy—slightly acidic soil with a pH level of about 6.5. The soil should be well-draining and fairly fertile.
Planting Cilantro Seeds
Cilantro plants that are grown from seeds tend to be the most successful. (Transplants often struggle to adjust.) When planting the seeds, space them 1 to 2 inches apart, and if you're planting in rows, leave a gap of at least 12 inches between each one. Ensure the seeds are covered with around ½-inch of soil.
Cilantro seeds will begin to sprout in cool temperatures (between 55 and 68 degrees), but they should remain moist during this time. Water them weekly to keep moisture levels steady. However, avoid keeping them soggy all the time! Aim for approximately one inch of water per week.
Just so you know, once cilantro has reached maturity, it will shed its seeds (known as coriander!) and propagate naturally.
Indoor Cilantro Growing Tips
Although many prefer planting cilantro outdoors, it’s entirely possible to grow it indoors successfully. Choose a deep planter, as cilantro roots can grow quite long. A 12-inch deep container should work, and be sure to select one with drainage holes. Keep the room temperature below 75 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent the soil from getting too warm. Avoid placing your pot near a heat source or direct sunlight if needed.
In addition to the usual container method, hydroponic (water-based) systems are also a trendy option for indoor cilantro growing. Remarkably, cilantro can thrive directly in water when provided with a grow light.
How to Care for Cilantro Plants
Watering
Once your cilantro is established, usually around 45 days, you can reduce watering. The soil should remain slightly moist, but it's better to underwater it just a little at this stage. Cilantro struggles in damp or humid conditions.
Light Requirements
Cilantro enjoys full sun while it's growing. However, once it reaches maturity, it's best to limit sunlight to avoid bolting. Aim for no more than 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If your cilantro is in a pot and temperatures rise above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, move it to a shaded spot in the afternoon. For cilantro planted in the ground, you can create shade by placing taller plants nearby or using a shade cloth.
Temperature Preferences
Cilantro thrives in cooler temperatures, flourishing in climates ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it remains sensitive to frost, so to safeguard your seedlings, cover them with a cold frame.
The Benefits of Mulching
Mulching can be incredibly useful for growing healthy cilantro. It helps keep the soil cool during warmer weather and wards off weeds. Straw is commonly used for cilantro, but be sure to till lightly to avoid harming the roots.
Bolting is a major challenge for gardeners. Mandy L. Smith, a master gardener at Penn State Extension, clearly outlines the ideal conditions to prevent cilantro from bolting quickly—full sun and well-drained, acidic soil are essential for a successful harvest. Keep your cilantro cool with proper watering and mulching, and choose a location with afternoon shade in extremely hot climates.
How to Harvest Cilantro
The most rewarding part of growing cilantro is harvesting its leaves! Once the stalks have reached at least 6 inches, you can begin reaping the benefits. Cut the leafy stems close to the ground, but avoid removing more than a third of the plant. This will help encourage further growth. If you prefer, you can cut the entire plant, but leave about an inch of stem to allow for regrowth and a second harvest.
Common Pests and Diseases
Aphids are one of the most frequent pests to target cilantro, attracted by its herby aroma. “A strong burst of water is a simple way to control them,” suggests Smith. Cilantro can also be affected by bacterial leaf spot, which typically shows up as waterlogged spots with yellow edges. These spots eventually expand and darken to brown or black. Dispose of the affected plants right away, but avoid composting them. To prevent future outbreaks, increase air circulation and water at ground level rather than overhead.
