Coriandrum sativum

Sowing and cultivation tips

Coriandrum sativum seeds establish best when direct sown after the last frost into well-drained, moderately fertile soil kept consistently moist. Grow in full sun to light shade; in hot weather, a little shade helps reduce stress and premature flowering. In mild climates, autumn sowing may be possible; otherwise, make small, regular sowings for a steady supply. Thin seedlings to maintain airflow and avoid crowding, as the plants remain compact to medium in habit. Avoid disturbing roots; this crop dislikes transplanting. Water deeply but do not waterlog, and remove competing weeds to keep growth even. Containers with free-draining mix and attentive watering suit it well.

• Succession sow small patches for a steady harvest and fewer bolting spikes.
• Offer light shade in hot spells to keep growth even and leaves tender.
• Suitable for containers: choose pots with drainage and maintain even moisture.
• Edible leaves and seeds; widely grown as a culinary herb.
• Flower umbels can attract pollinators and other beneficial insects.

How do you grow coriander from seed?

Sow Coriandrum sativum seeds directly where they will grow, as seedlings dislike root disturbance. After last frost, prepare a fine, well-drained seedbed and sow 0.5–1 cm deep, spacing seeds a few centimetres apart; thin gradually to about 15–20 cm between plants for airflow and healthy foliage. Keep the soil consistently moist (not waterlogged) during germination, which typically takes 7–21 days, fastest around 15–21°C. For a steady supply of leaves, succession sow every 2–3 weeks. Avoid rich feeding; moderate fertility supports leaf growth without forcing early flowering.

When should coriander be sown outdoors?

Sow outdoors after the last frost when the soil is workable and warming. In mild climates, autumn sowing is also possible for cool-season growth. Coriander prefers cooler conditions; in areas with hot summers, focus on early spring (Northern Hemisphere) / early autumn (Southern Hemisphere) or provide light shade as weather heats up. Soil temperatures of roughly 10–25°C are acceptable, with 15–21°C ideal for quick, even germination. Succession sowing through the cooler parts of the season helps maintain leaf quality and reduces the urge to bolt.

Does cilantro need full sun, and what soil and watering suit it best?

Cilantro (leaf of coriander) grows best in full sun to light shade; in hot weather, some midday or afternoon shade helps keep plants cooler and delays bolting. Choose well-drained, moderately fertile soil that retains consistent moisture without becoming soggy. Water to keep the root zone evenly moist, increasing frequency during dry spells and in containers, which dry out faster. A light organic mulch helps regulate soil moisture and temperature. Overly rich, wet soils encourage soft growth and stress; steady conditions produce sturdier plants and better flavour.

How can you prevent cilantro from bolting?

Grow in cool weather, sow little-and-often, and provide light shade when temperatures climb. Keep soil moisture even; drought followed by a flush of water can trigger flowering. Maintain adequate spacing for airflow and steady growth, and use a light mulch to keep roots cool. Harvest outer stems regularly to encourage new leaves. Where available, choose slow-bolting strains. Avoid heavy nitrogen spikes and heat-stressed positions such as against reflective walls. Once plants flower, leaf production slows; consider letting a few bloom for beneficial insects and seed.

Can coriander be grown successfully in containers?

Yes, coriander performs well in pots if root depth and moisture are managed. Use a container at least 20–30 cm deep with good drainage, filled with a free-draining, moderately fertile mix. Sow directly into the pot rather than transplanting to avoid disturbing the taproot, spacing clusters that can be thinned to 15–20 cm. Position in full sun with light shade during hot periods, and water consistently so the mix never fully dries or stays saturated. Succession sow in the same pot or multiple pots for continuous harvests.

How do leaf and seed harvests differ, and when to pick green coriander seed?

For leaves (cilantro), begin snipping outer stems once plants are well established, typically a few weeks after germination; frequent cutting encourages fresh growth. For seed, allow flower umbels to form. Harvest green seed when the globes are plump, aromatic, and still green for a bright, citrusy spice; use fresh or briefly dried. For mature dry seed, wait until seeds turn tan and begin to dry, then cut the heads and finish drying in a breathable bag. Flowering umbels attract pollinators, and any seed that drops may self-sow for future plants.

Growing guidance on this site is general and may vary with microclimate, soil type, drainage, and exposure. Timing references use climate cues (for example, after last frost or when soil is workable) to suit diverse conditions. Product pages contain precise details—such as sowing depth, spacing, and germination notes—along with variety-specific instructions sourced from the supplier and applicable compliance information.

Additional guidance and sourcing

For growers planning Coriandrum sativum seeds (coriander/cilantro), timing, site and gentle handling make a difference. Direct sow where plants will mature, as this species dislikes root disturbance. Sow after last frost when soil is workable; in mild climates, autumn sowing may be possible. Choose well-drained soil with moderate fertility and steady moisture. Space thinly and thin seedlings to 8–10 cm, with 20–30 cm between rows. Succession sow at short intervals for a more continuous supply. In hot spells, light shade can help limit bolting; in cooler periods, full sun supports sturdy growth. Keep beds weed-free and avoid heavy feeding, which may soften flavour. Allow a portion of plants to flower for beneficial insects or to save seed once umbels dry naturally. Further information on cultivars, seed counts, and complementary herbs suited to similar conditions is available from SeedsChoice.