Growing Cilantro/Coriander

An annual or biennial herb (Coriandrun sativum), of the Parsley Family, grown for it’s aromatic seeds which are used for flavoring liquors and confections. The plants, which grow about 2 feet high, are cultivated in rows about 18 inches apart, generally from seed sown in early spring. The seed heads which ripen about midsummer are gathered and dried, or left on plant till brown.

The leaves are most commonly referred to as cilantro and have a much different taste from the seeds,referred to as coriander, that have a  similar taste to parsley with a dash of citrus flavor.

Growing Cultures

Outdoors, containers (sow directly in pots, do not transplant as root disturbance causes early bolting), hydroponics.

Plant Height

Cilantro / Coriander grows to a height of 18 to 24 inches (45 – 60cm).

Plant Spacing

Cilantro / Coriander plants should be spaced 9 to 12 inches (22 – 30cm) apart.

Preferred pH Range

Cilantro / Coriander will grow in a relatively wide pH range between 6.1 (mildly acidic) and 7.8 (mildly alkaline) with a preferred range between 6.5 and 7.5.

Propagation

From seed. Direct sow outdoors after last frost. Start seeds indoors six weeks before planting outdoors.

Seed Germination Period

7 to 10 days. Could take up to 28 days.

Seeds Per Gram (Approximate)

Between 110 and 150.

Soil Requirements

Deep, fertile, light or heavy, but well-draining.

Alternative Growing Media

Soilless potting mixes, perlite, vermiculite, rockwool, coco peat, Oasis foam.

Time From Seed to Saleable Plant

Six weeks.

Sun & Lighting Requirements

Cilantro / Coriander grown outdoors for Coriander seed prefers full sun. Cilantro / Coriander grown outdoors for leaves can tolerate some shade.

Cilantro / Coriander will grow indoors satisfactorily under standard fluorescent lamps, and exceptionally well under high output fluorescent , compact fluorescent, plant growing lights. Keep standard fluorescent lamps between 2 and 4 inches from the tops of the plants, high output and compact fluorescents approximately one foot above the plants, and HID lights between 2 and 4 feet above the plants, depending on wattage. Have an oscillating fan gently stir seedlings for at least 2 hours per day to stimulate shorter, sturdier, and more natural plant habit.

USDA Hardiness

Annual.

Water Requirements

Water on a regular schedule, do not over water.

Potential Pests & Diseases

Aphids, thrips, mites, & whitefly. Minimal disease issues.

Special Notes

Cilantro / Coriander is known to attract bees, butterflies or birds, has fragrant blossoms and aromatic foliage. Cilantro / Coriander self-sows freely; remove flowers (deadhead) if you do not want volunteer seedlings the following season.