How long does coriander take from sowing to harvest?

From outdoor sowings made March to June, you can usually pick fresh leaves from mid-season onward and collect mature seeds between July and September, fitting well into the main growing period in many temperate gardens.

Can I harvest both leaves and seeds from these coriander plants?

Yes. This annual herb provides two useful harvests: feathery foliage for fresh coriander leaves, and later clusters of rounded seed heads that can be dried and used as coriander seeds in cooking.

Where and how should I sow these coriander seeds?

Sow outdoors once the soil has warmed, in a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil. Scatter seeds thinly in shallow drills about 1 cm deep, with rows spaced 25–30 cm apart, then lightly cover with fine soil and water gently.

How should I space the plants for good growth?

After germination, thin the seedlings to around 15–20 cm apart. This spacing allows enough room for leafy growth early on and for strong flower and seed head development later in the season.

How can I keep a steady supply of coriander leaves through the season?

For a longer picking period, make repeat sowings every few weeks from March to June. Successive sowings help maintain fresh foliage, especially as earlier plants start forming flower stems and seed heads.

What care do coriander plants need during the growing season?

Coriander thrives in sun with well-drained soil and regular moisture, particularly during early growth. Keep the area weed-free, water consistently in dry spells without waterlogging, allow some plants to mature for seed, and rotate the growing area each year to support vigorous plants.