Planting in hot weather
Notice it early, adjust gently, and keep going. Plants are excellent teachers.
Coriandrum sativum
Cilantro
Spring & Fall & Winter7–14 days to 30–45 days to harvestPartial SunContainer friendly
Cilantro prefers cool weather and grows quickly. Sow a little every few weeks because heat can make it bolt.
SpringFallWinter
01 / Overview
A friendly first look
Cilantro prefers cool weather and grows quickly. Sow a little every few weeks because heat can make it bolt.
Gardens do not run on exact clocks. The timing here is a useful estimate; weather, temperature, and variety all get a vote.
02 / When to plant
Give it the right kind of day
Cilantro does best in Spring and Fall and Winter. Cool soil and mild days help this crop settle in. Check your local before deciding on a week.
SunPartial SunWaterKeep evenly moist while young, then water when the surface dries.SoilLoose soil with good drainage.
03 / Growth timeline
From seed to supper
1
Seed
Day 0Start with fresh seed.
2
Germination
7–14 daysKeep the soil gently moist.
3
Sprout
1–2 weeksThe first leaves appear.
4
Seedling
2–4 weeksTrue leaves begin growing.
5
Mature plant
VariesGrowth becomes fuller and stronger.
6
Harvest
30–45 daysLook for the crop-specific signs below.
04 / Ready to harvest
How to know it’s ready
- Plants are about 6 inches tall
- Leaves are bright and feathery
- Stems are tender
- Flower stalk has not formed
05 / How to harvest
A gentle, simple harvest
- 1
Snip outer stems near the soil.
- 2
Leave the center to keep growing.
- 3
Harvest in the cool morning for crisp leaves.
06 / Beginner mistakes
Small course corrections
Disturbing the taproot
Notice it early, adjust gently, and keep going. Plants are excellent teachers.
Waiting too long to harvest
Notice it early, adjust gently, and keep going. Plants are excellent teachers.
07 / Care notes
Your quick care checklist
- Morning sun is plenty
- Direct sow when possible
- Keep young plants moist
- Sow again every 2–3 weeks
Common problems
Tall central stems mean bolting has begun.
Wilting can mean dry soil or afternoon heat.
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