How to Grow Cilantro/Coriander

Seeds sprout and develop cotyledons (seed leaves). Tiny seedlings emerge within 7-10 days.

Keep soil moist but not soggy. Provide consistent warmth (60-70°F). Thin seedlings to proper spacing once they develop true leaves.

Plant develops feathery, deeply lobed leaves on thin stems. Foliage is tender, aromatic, and suitable for culinary use.

Water regularly and consistently. Pinch off flower buds if you want to extend the leaf harvest phase. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer which promotes foliage at expense of flavor.

Small, delicate white or pale pink flowers appear in umbrella-shaped clusters (umbels). Leaves become less tender as energy diverts to reproduction.

For leaf harvest, remove flower buds to delay bolting. For seed production, allow flowers to remain. Flowering indicates the plant is bolting and leaf quality declines.

Flowers fade and round, ridged seed pods form and gradually dry. Seeds turn from green to brown and develop their characteristic aroma.

Reduce watering once seeds develop. Support plants with stakes if needed. Allow seeds to fully dry on the plant before harvest.

Seeds are fully mature, dry, and brown. Foliage has senesced or is minimal. Seeds readily detach from the umbel.

Harvest seed heads when 90% of seeds have turned brown. Cut entire seed heads and dry further in a warm, well-ventilated location. Thresh seeds from pods and store.