Cilantro is one of the most widely used flavouring herbs throughout the world and shares a resemblance with parsley.  When cilantro goes to seed it becomes a whole other coriander, changing to a completely different herb, this is pretty unique in the veggie growing world. Pests and diseases don’t appear to bother cilantro.

How Do I Grow Cilantro?

Start your cilantro plant in the container it will grow in and if you buy a nursery plant, purchase ones without any buds or flowers.

We recommend direct sowing your cilantro, they can be fussy to transplant.  You can also direct seed cilantro about 1/2 inches deep after danger for frost has past. Germination will take about two weeks.

Companion Plants

Basil, mint, yarrow, tansy

Nutrition

¼ cup: Vitamin K (16%), Vitamin A (5%)

Harvesting

Cilantro leaves can be picked anytime when the plant is 6-8 inches tall.  The leaves are best used fresh.

The seeds can be harvested when the heads have turned brown.  Spread the seeds on a baking sheet and put them in the oven at 200 F (93 C) until dry.  You can also put your seeds in paper bag and keep them in a warm space.

Preparing and using

Cilantro is a vital ingredient to many dishes, especially in Mexican food! You can add your cilantro to salad, fish or beans.

Helpful Tips and Tricks

If it bolts, try just leaving it in the ground and harvest the seeds as coriander. Or save them for next seasons planting of cilantro.