How to Grow Cilantro From Seeds

Cilantro, also known as Chinese parsley, is a favorite for herb gardens. The aromatic herb is part of the parsley family. Fresh cilantro is used in many Asian, Mexican and Mediterranean dishes. The seeds, known as coriander, are also a popular spice. Cilantro grows best in outdoor herb gardens. Cilantro grows over 3 feet tall and has pretty white flowers that will add interest to your vegetable garden in the second year.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fertilizer Bucket

1. Choose a spot in your garden that is well drained and receives full to partial sun. Cilantro will grow in most soil conditions.

2. Sow cilantro seeds on the top of the bed and lightly cover with soil after all danger of frost has passed. Water thoroughly.

3. Thin plants to 6 inches apart after the plants have two to three sets of leaves. Water once or twice a week during dry periods.

4. Add a general-purpose fertilizer mid-season to ensure rich foliage.

5. Harvest the leaves as needed by pinching off. Coriander seeds can be harvest in the second year after the flower heads form. Cut the flower stem off and hang to dry over a bucket or other container. The drying seeds will fall into the bucket. You can use the seeds in cooking or replant them for future crops.

Tips & Warnings

• Ground coriander is used in curry. It can be ground in a coffee grinder. Replant yearly if growing for seeds.

References

• The Gardener's Network: How to Grow Cilantro