Growing Cilantro Seeds: Varieties and Tips

Cilantro, scientifically known as Coriandrum sativum, is a versatile herb that enhances a myriad of culinary delights, particularly in Asian and Latin American cuisine. Its distinctive fresh and citrusy flavor adds a unique touch to various dishes. Cilantro leaves are well-known for their culinary uses, and the seeds, called coriander seeds, have a slightly milder flavor. They can be used whole or ground into a powder, adding versatility to your kitchen creations.

The plant itself is a visual delight, adorned with delicate white flowers and vibrant green leaves. This aesthetic appeal makes cilantro a sought-after addition to herb gardens and indoor plant collections. Beyond its culinary uses, cilantro's beauty and adaptability contribute to its popularity among herb enthusiasts and home cooks alike.

Cilantro seeds come in various varieties, each with its unique characteristics. To have a continuous harvest of cilantro, it's crucial to know the various cilantro types and how to plant and care for them. Cilantro, grown in nutrient-rich potting mix, can reach up to 24" inches tall. Mature plants will produce many herbs.

These herbs thrive in full sun but can also be grown indoors with grow lights. As cilantro matures, it produces delicate seed heads, allowing for succession planting and a continuous harvest of fresh herbs. Cilantro is a versatile herb that adds fresh flavor to dishes, whether grown outdoors or indoors in containers.

Varieties of Cilantro

• Santo: Santo cilantro is a popular variety known for its ability to resist bolting, which is the premature flowering and seeding that can occur in cilantro plants when exposed to hot weather. This trait makes Santo a great choice for those living in regions with warmer climates. Chefs and home cooks alike favor Santo cilantro for its deeply cut and intensely flavorful leaves.
• Calypso: Thriving even in hot weather, Calypso cilantro stands out as another bolting-resistant variety. It produces an abundance of aromatic leaves with a slightly peppery flavor. This variety is particularly well-suited for those looking to grow cilantro year-round.
• Long Standing: Known for its prolonged leaf production, Long Standing cilantro lives up to its name. It resists bolting and provides a consistent supply of fresh leaves over an extended period. This variety is ideal for gardeners seeking a continuous harvest.
• Slow-Bolt: Slow-Bolt cilantro is bred to resist bolting and can handle heat better than some other varieties, as the name implies. This makes it an excellent choice for those gardening in regions with hot summers.

Sowing Cilantro Seeds

Sowing cilantro seeds is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail to ensure a successful harvest. Here are some essential steps to follow:

• Choosing the Right Location: Cilantro thrives in cool weather, so select a location that receives partial sunlight or dappled shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. If you're growing cilantro indoors, place it near a bright window or provide supplemental fluorescent lighting.
• Preparing the Soil: Cilantro prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve its texture and nutrient content.
• Sowing Depth: Plant cilantro seeds about ¼ inch deep in the soil. Space them approximately 6 inches apart to allow enough room for the plants to grow.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Watering regularly and evenly is crucial, as cilantro is sensitive to drying out. Using an inch of water per week is a good rule of thumb.
• Fertilization: To promote healthy growth, apply a water-soluble fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season. Choose a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Caring for Cilantro Plants

Once your cilantro seeds have sprouted and grown into young plants, it's essential to provide them with proper care to ensure a steady supply of fresh leaves.

• Thinning: When cilantro seedlings reach a few inches in height, thin them out, leaving 6 inches of space between each plant. This allows room for the cilantro to grow and prevents overcrowding.
• Harvesting: Cilantro can be harvested once the leaves are large enough to use. To harvest, simply snip the outer leaves, leaving the central growth point intact. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce new leaves throughout the growing season.
• Preventing Bolting: To prolong the harvest and prevent bolting, which can cause the leaves to become bitter and the plant to focus on seed production, keep the cilantro plants cool. Mulch around the base of the plants to help regulate soil temperature, and consider providing some shade during the hottest parts of the day in hot climates.

Cilantro is a short-lived herb that offers both its leaves and seeds for culinary exploration. By selecting the right variety, sowing seeds with care, and providing the proper growing conditions, you can enjoy a continuous supply of this aromatic herb throughout the year.

Whether you're using cilantro to add a burst of flavor to your dishes or as a garnish, cultivating this versatile herb is a rewarding endeavor for any herb enthusiast or home cook. With the right techniques and attention, you can ensure a steady supply of fresh cilantro leaves and flavorful coriander seeds for your kitchen creations.

Learn more about seed starting in your organic garden with our resource guide and buy everything you need with our Seed Starting Kit.