Coriander, also known as cilantro, is a versatile herb cherished for its flavorful leaves and seeds. This annual plant, Coriandrum sativum, thrives with proper care, though it can be challenging due to its tendency to bolt. With adequate light and regular maintenance, gardeners can enjoy fresh coriander indoors or outdoors, making it a rewarding addition to any herb garden.
- Common Names: Chinese Parsley, Cilantro, Dhania
- Scientific Name: Coriandrum sativum
- Plant Type: Annual, herb, cool season vegetable
- Plant Height: 1-2 feet
- Growing Difficulty: Easy
- Growing Time: 3-4 weeks
- Bloom Time: Summer
- Temperature: Prefers cool climates
- Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial Shade
- Watering Frequency: Keep soil regularly moist
- Plant Spacing: Thin seedlings to about 6 inches apart
Different Methods to Grow Coriander
Growing from Seeds
Growing coriander from seeds is a popular method among home gardeners. Sow the seeds in pots with ordinary potting mix, keeping the soil moist until germination. Once seedlings appear, thin them to about 6 inches apart and maintain consistent moisture.
- Pros: Cost-effective and allows for a larger number of plants.
- Cons: Requires more time and patience, and seedlings need careful maintenance.
Using Nursery Transplants
Another common method is using nursery transplants. Repot the transplants once after bringing them home and keep them in that container for their entire life. This method is ideal for those who prefer not to start from seeds.
- Pros: Faster and more convenient with less initial maintenance.
- Cons: More expensive and limited to the number of transplants purchased.
Ideal Soil and Location Requirements
Coriander thrives in airy, light, fast-draining soil enriched with perlite or sharp sand. It requires six or more hours of bright, indirect light or a few hours of direct sun. Typical indoor temperatures around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit are ideal.
When to Plant Coriander
Plant coriander in spring or fall when temperatures are moderate. Avoid planting during frost periods, as coriander thrives in cool climates. The best time to plant is after the last frost date in spring or before the first frost date in fall, ensuring optimal growth conditions.
Growing Coriander Outdoors
Growing coriander outdoors is best achieved by starting from seeds. This method is straightforward and allows for a larger number of plants, making it ideal for home gardeners.
- Choose a location. Select a spot in your garden that receives full sun or partial shade. Ensure the soil is well-draining.
- Prepare the soil. Mix in compost or organic matter to enrich the soil. Aim for a light, airy texture with good drainage.
- Sow the seeds. Plant coriander seeds directly into the soil, spacing them about 6 inches apart. Cover the seeds lightly with soil.
- Water regularly. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Aim for about one inch of water per week.
- Thin the seedlings. Once the seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them to maintain a spacing of about 6 inches apart.
- Monitor sunlight. Ensure the plants receive at least six hours of bright, indirect light or a few hours of direct sun daily.
- Maintain temperature. Coriander thrives in temperatures between 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid planting during extreme heat.
- Fertilize monthly. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer or organic compost to nourish the plants.
- Harvest leaves. Begin harvesting leaves once the plants are about 3-4 inches tall. Regularly snip soft stems to encourage new growth.
- Collect seeds. Allow some plants to flower and produce seeds. Harvest the seeds once they turn brown and dry.
Growing Coriander Indoors
Growing coriander indoors is entirely possible and can be quite straightforward with the right approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Choose a container. Use a pot that is at least 12 inches deep and 18 inches wide with good drainage.
- Prepare the soil. Fill the pot with airy, light, fast-draining soil enriched with perlite or sharp sand.
- Sow the seeds. Plant coriander seeds about 1/4 inch deep in the soil, spacing them evenly.
- Water the soil. Keep the soil regularly moist but not soaked, aiming for about one inch of water per week.
- Provide sunlight. Ensure the plant gets six or more hours of bright, indirect light or a few hours of direct sun from an east- or west-facing window.
- Maintain temperature. Keep indoor temperatures around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Fertilize monthly. Use a liquid fertilizer or controlled-release pellets once a month to nourish the plants.
- Pinch back young plants. Pinch back young plants by about one inch to encourage fuller growth.
- Harvest leaves. Regularly snip soft stems to extend the harvest and encourage new growth.
Growing cilantro indoors can make the herb available in winter and may also provide some control over the bolting process.
Caring for Coriander
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Aim for about one inch of water per week to ensure the plant remains healthy and vibrant.
- Fertilizing: Use a liquid fertilizer or controlled-release pellets once a month. For those preferring organic options, compost or organic fertilizer works well to nourish the plant.
- Pest Control: Watch out for common pests like aphids, cutworms, and root-knot nematodes. Avoid overhead irrigation and refrain from handling the plant when it's wet to minimize disease risks.
- Harvesting: Begin harvesting leaves once the plants are about 3-4 inches tall. Cut the leaves at the base, but avoid taking more than one-third of the plant at a time to encourage continuous growth.
- General Maintenance: Pinch back young plants by about one inch to promote fuller growth. Regularly snip soft stems to extend the harvest and slow down bolting, ensuring a steady supply of fresh coriander.
Common Challenges With Coriander
Growing coriander is generally considered easy, especially in cool climates during spring and fall. This herb is known for its rapid growth rate and low maintenance requirements, making it a favorite among home gardeners. With the right amount of light and regular watering, you can enjoy fresh coriander in just a few weeks. In my experience, starting from seeds is straightforward and rewarding, as it allows for a larger number of plants.
However, coriander does come with its own set of challenges. One of the most common issues is bolting, which happens when the plant flowers prematurely, often due to high temperatures. This can alter the flavor of the leaves, making them less desirable. Additionally, pests like aphids and diseases such as powdery mildew can pose problems. Despite these challenges, with a bit of care and attention, coriander can thrive and provide a bountiful harvest.
Safety of Coriander for Pets
Coriander is generally safe for cats, dogs, and other pets. However, if you suspect your pet has ingested a large amount and is showing signs of distress, contact the ASPCA 24-hour hotline immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you prevent coriander from bolting?
To prevent bolting, keep coriander in cool temperatures between 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Provide consistent moisture and avoid letting the soil dry out. Pinch back young plants to encourage fuller growth and delay the flowering process.
What type of soil is best for growing coriander?
Coriander thrives in light, fast-draining soil enriched with perlite or sharp sand. Avoid heavy, clay-based soils that retain too much moisture. A premium potting mix is ideal for container-grown coriander.
How often should you water coriander?
Water coriander regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Aim for about one inch of water per week. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and other moisture-related issues.
Can coriander be grown indoors year-round?
Yes, coriander can be grown indoors year-round with proper care. Ensure it receives six or more hours of bright, indirect light or a few hours of direct sun daily. Maintain indoor temperatures around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth.
