Growing cilantro from seed is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy fresh herbs. The key steps involve proper seed placement, consistent moisture, and attentive care post-germination.
Getting Started: Planting Cilantro Seeds
Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) thrives in cooler weather and is best grown directly from seed, as it dislikes transplanting.
Choosing Your Seeds and Location
- Seed Selection: Opt for fresh, high-quality cilantro seeds. These are often sold as whole fruits (which contain two seeds) and can be gently crushed to separate them, though this isn't strictly necessary for germination.
- Timing: Plant cilantro in early spring after the last frost, or in late summer/early fall, as it tends to bolt (go to seed) quickly in hot weather.
- Sunlight: Choose a spot in your garden that receives full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade can help prevent premature bolting.
- Soil: Cilantro prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal.
Planting the Seeds
Cilantro does not need to be planted deep.
- Preparation: Prepare your chosen planting area by loosening the soil and removing any weeds or debris.
- Sowing: Sprinkle the seeds on top of the soil. For best results, aim for a spacing of about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart. This provides enough room for initial growth before thinning.
- Covering: Cover the sprinkled seeds with 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.2 cm) of soil. This shallow depth is crucial for successful germination.
Germination and Early Care
Consistent moisture is vital for successful germination and healthy seedling development.
Watering for Germination
- Initial Moisture: Keep the seeds moist immediately after planting. Use a fine spray nozzle or a gentle watering can to avoid displacing the tiny seeds.
- Germination Time: With consistent moisture, the seeds will germinate in 7 to 10 days. During this period, it's critical to ensure the soil does not dry out.
Post-Germination Care
- Continued Watering: Once the seedlings are growing, continue to water them to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Overwatering can lead to problems like damping-off disease, while underwatering will stunt their growth.
- Thinning: Once seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves (typically when they are 2-3 inches tall), thin them to about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) apart. This gives each plant ample space to develop fully and improves air circulation, which helps reduce the risk of disease. The thinned seedlings can be added to salads or other dishes.
- Fertilization (Optional): If your soil is poor, a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength can be applied once the seedlings are established. However, cilantro generally does not require heavy feeding.
Quick Reference: Cilantro Seed Germination
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Planting Depth | Sprinkle on top, cover with 1/4 to 1/2 inch soil |
| Moisture | Keep seeds consistently moist |
| Germination Time | 7 to 10 days |
| Post-Germination | Keep soil moist, not soggy |
Harvesting Your Cilantro
Cilantro leaves can be harvested when the plants are 6 inches (15 cm) tall or more.
- Method: Snip the outer leaves from the plant using sharp scissors, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. Avoid taking more than one-third of the plant at a time to ensure continued production.
- Succession Planting: For a continuous supply of fresh cilantro, consider planting new batches of seeds every 2-3 weeks, especially during the cooler parts of the growing season.
- Bolting: When temperatures rise, cilantro tends to "bolt" (produce a flower stalk and go to seed). After bolting, the leaves can become bitter. At this point, you can collect the seeds (which are known as coriander) for future planting or culinary use.
By following these simple steps, you can successfully grow a steady supply of fresh cilantro from seed in your garden.
