Cilantro, popularly known as coriander, is a highly common herb that is used by people in different cuisines across the world. Whether you are interested in making soups or salads, or you want to make a delicacy, you can easily use cilantro. And what is better than having your own harvest of fresh and delicious cilantro directly from the garden?
So, if you also want to know how to grow Cilantro, then you do not have to worry, as this guide tells you all about growing Cilantro at home, whether in your front yard or a terrace garden.
When to Plant Cilantro
If you are growing Cilantro for its leaves, then you need to plant the seeds when the temperature is still cool. As soon as the temperature warms, you will see flowers on the plant. This is perfect for those who are looking for coriander seeds. You should plant the seeds around the last frost date, and keep planting them in small batches in late spring and summer.
Where to plant
Since cilantro is a plant that thrives in full sun, which means you need to choose a location that receives around 6-8 hours of daily sunlight. But if you feel that the afternoon sun is too harsh, then you need to provide it shade in the afternoon. Additionally, you need to choose well-draining and slightly acidic soil that allows you to grow cilantro without issues.
How to Plant Cilantro
Now that you have decided where to plant the seeds, you should also know the correct way to grow Cilantro. Make sure that you have mixed compost into the soil before planting to amend it and make it more nutritious.
- Now, you need to plant the seeds, whether in a garden or a container, while keeping 1 inch of space in rows.
- Once you see a second set of leaves on the plant, you need to replant these young seedlings around 4 inches apart from one another.
Caring for Cilantro
Along with ensuring that the plants have been planted correctly, it is also essential to provide these plants with the correct care and nutrition to ensure that you can receive healthy leaves and seeds.
- Make sure that your plants are well watered and weeded, as overcrowding of weeds can result in damage to the plant.
- You should also add mulch around the plant with an organic mulch such as untreated grass or straw. This keeps the soil moist and free of weeds.
- If you are not looking for seeds, then you should pull and compost the plant as soon as you see flowers.
- It is also essential to watch out for pests and diseases, as these can damage everything you have done till now.
Harvesting Cilantro
Lastly, you need to be ready to harvest cilantro leaves when you see that almost 2 stems have formed. Pick the lower leaves first, as these are more flavourful when compared to the upper leaves. You can easily pick and use these leaves in salads and while cooking to add a wonderful flavour to your food.
Source: Abodelook