Cilantro care guide

Pets and children

We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.

How often to water Cilantro

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Every 2 days

Dry soil toughens the leaves, so water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, as a guide, in the cool of the morning in midsummer.

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Every 3 days

Fall-sown plants are growing now, so water once the soil is dry, as a guide.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Every 5 days

Growth slows, so water a day or two after the soil dries, as a guide.

Light and placement for Cilantro

Generally likes sun, and a sunny outdoor spot in spring and fall is the guide; it dislikes heat, so from early summer bright shade keeps it cooler and slower to bolt.

Overwintering Cilantro

Overwintering guide: −3°C (27°F) or above

Fairly cold-tolerant: fall-sown plants generally overwinter under the eaves as a guide, covered with fleece during frosty spells or brought to a bright window.

Fertilizing and repotting Cilantro

Fertilizer

Diluted liquid fertilizer about every two weeks while growing, as a guide; too much dulls the aroma, so keep it light.

When to repot

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Common problems with Cilantro

• Early-summer heat makes it bolt, and the leaves turn thin and sparse.
• Transplanting damages the taproot and the plant dies.
• Drying out toughens the leaves and weakens the aroma.

Tips for growing Cilantro

• It has a taproot, so sow directly in the pot and harvest by thinning.
• Fall sowing gives a longer harvest and is easier than spring sowing.
• Once it bolts, let the seeds ripen and use them as coriander seed.

More herb care guides

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• FennelFoeniculum vulgare
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• Herbs (general)