Grow Fresh Coriander (Cilantro) – A Must-Have Herb for Every Kitchen Garden

About Coriander (Cilantro)

Coriander, also known as Cilantro, is a fast-growing aromatic herb cultivated for its leaves, stems, and seeds. Scientifically known as Coriandrum sativum, it is one of the most versatile herbs in global cuisines. The leaves have a fresh, citrusy flavor, while the seeds are warm and spicy.

It’s an essential addition to kitchen gardens, perfect for growing in containers, window boxes, or open beds.

Why Grow Coriander (Cilantro)?

• Grows quickly and is ready to harvest in 3–4 weeks
• Provides both fresh leaves (cilantro) and seeds (coriander)
• Essential in Indian, Middle Eastern, Asian, and Latin cuisines
• Rich in vitamin K, antioxidants, and digestive benefits
• Perfect for small spaces, balcony gardens, or indoor pots

Whether you call it Coriander or Cilantro, this herb is a kitchen essential.

When to Plant

• Best planted in cooler weather:
• Spring (Feb–Mar) or Autumn (Sep–Nov)
• Avoid peak summer as plants bolt quickly in high heat
• In cooler zones, can be grown year-round in partial shade

Early morning planting gives the best start for tender leaves.

Where to Plant

• Prefers full sun to partial shade
• Needs well-drained, fertile soil enriched with compost
• Ideal soil pH: 6.2 to 6.8
• Suitable for pots, hanging baskets, or direct sowing in garden beds

Ensure good airflow to prevent fungal diseases.

How to Plant

1. Soak coriander seeds overnight to speed up germination
2. Sow directly in soil ½ inch deep, spaced about 6 inches apart
3. Cover lightly with soil and water gently
4. Keep the soil moist until seedlings emerge in 7–10 days
5. Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding
   

Succession planting every 2–3 weeks ensures continuous harvest

How to Care

• Water regularly, especially during dry weather
• Mulch around plants to retain moisture and control weeds
• Use organic liquid fertilizer once a month
• Harvest leaves regularly to prevent early flowering
• Pinch off flower stalks for prolonged leaf harvest

Once bolted, let the plant mature for seed collection.

Companion Plants

Coriander grows well with:

• Spinach and lettuce – share similar growing conditions
• Tomatoes and chilies – repel pests and improve yield
• Carrots – enhance flavor and soil health

Avoid planting near fennel, which can inhibit growth.

Harvesting

• Leaves (cilantro) can be harvested 3–4 weeks after sowing
• Cut outer leaves first, allowing the center to grow
• Seeds (coriander) are ready when flowers dry and turn brown (60–75 days)
• Dry harvested seeds in a cool, dry place for storage

Both fresh leaves and dried seeds are valuable kitchen spices.

Uses

• Leaves used in chutneys, soups, curries, and salads
• Seeds used for pickling, spice blends, and powders
• Cilantro adds fresh flavor, coriander seeds add earthy depth
• Known for digestive, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties

A true two-in-one herb for both flavor and health.

Final Thoughts

Coriander (Cilantro) is one of the easiest and most rewarding herbs you can grow at home. Whether you're cooking, garnishing, or preserving, this fragrant herb delivers fresh harvests and culinary versatility.

Get your premium coriander seeds now from dharaseeds.com and enjoy the benefits of growing your own organic, flavorful herbs at home.