Cilantro is fast-growing, fragrant, and surprisingly easy to grow — even in small spaces. Whether you’re cooking up tacos or tossing it into salads, nothing beats the taste of freshly picked herbs. I’ve learned (the hard way) that this little herb grows best with a few specific tricks.
If you’re new to gardening or just want a no-fuss kitchen crop, here’s: How to Grow Cilantro.
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#1 Choose the Right Spot
Cilantro prefers full sun to partial shade, especially in cooler months. In hotter climates, it bolts quickly — so give it some afternoon shade.
It grows well in containers or window boxes where light is steady but not scorching.
#2 Use Well-Drained Soil
Cilantro grows best in loose, well-draining soil enriched with compost. Avoid heavy or compacted soils, which cause root stress and stunted growth.
Aim for neutral to slightly acidic pH levels between 6.2 and 6.8.
#3 Sow Seeds Directly
Cilantro has a long taproot and dislikes transplanting. For best results, sow seeds directly where you want them to grow.
Plant about 1/4 inch deep and keep soil moist until sprouted — usually within 7–10 days.
#4 Keep It Cool
Cilantro bolts in hot temperatures, sending up flowers and turning bitter. To extend harvests, plant in spring or late summer and keep soil cool with mulch.
Some gardeners even sow a few seeds every 2 weeks for continuous leafy growth.
#5 Water Consistently
Cilantro needs steady moisture to thrive. Don’t let the soil dry out completely, but avoid soggy conditions.
Water when the top inch feels dry — about 2–3 times a week depending on weather.
#6 Harvest Often
Harvesting regularly encourages more leaf growth. Snip outer stems when plants are 4–6 inches tall, but leave the center intact.
If it starts to flower, you can still save the seeds — they’re called coriander!
#7 Grow Indoors, Too
Cilantro grows indoors with bright light and good airflow. A south-facing window or grow light setup works best.
For more indoor tips, check out our guide to easy indoor herbs.
Fresh Herbs Made Simple
Cilantro can be fussy with heat, but once you know its rhythm, it’s a breeze to grow.
Start with seeds, keep it cool, and enjoy weekly harvests. Want to level up?
Learn how to grow thyme next.
FAQ
Why does my cilantro keep bolting?
Cilantro bolts in hot weather or when stressed. Plant in cooler temps and keep the soil evenly moist to slow flowering.
Can I regrow cilantro after harvesting?
You can trim cilantro multiple times, but once it bolts, the leaves get bitter. For ongoing harvests, try succession planting every 2–3 weeks.
Is cilantro hard to grow indoors?
Not at all! Just make sure it gets 6+ hours of bright light daily. A grow light helps if your windows are shady.
I'm George Brown, a passionate gardener and the founder of UrbanLeafy.com. I love helping beginners grow fresh herbs, plants and greenery, whether on a windowsill, in a garden or a tiny balcony. My practical, no-fluff tips have been featured in Homes & Gardens, Livingetc, and Best Life, and are rooted in years of real experience. If you're ready to turn your space into a thriving herb haven, you’re in the right place.
