Plant Care

How to Grow Coriander

Coriander, a staple in various cuisines, is known for its distinct flavour from leaves, stalks, and seeds. Our guide covers sowing, growing, and harvesting this herb, ideal for home gardens. Start with coriander seeds in soil or pots, suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings. Explore alternative growing methods like water or cuttings, especially if you're seedless. This comprehensive guide details growing coriander in various conditions, including pots, water, and even bottles, with specific tips for UK gardeners. Learn about succession planting for a continuous harvest and harvesting seeds to maximise yield. Perfect for those seeking culinary and gardening adventures with coriander.

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Seeds Needs Seasonal S.O.S.

Growing Coriander: How to Sow and Grow Coriander

Grow Coriander From Seed

For best growth, coriander prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight, though it can handle partial shade during peak summer. To enhance germination, which can be sluggish, lightly crush the seeds before planting. Coriander's long taproot means careful handling to avoid root damage is crucial. Plant seeds in multi-cell trays, directly into garden soil, or pots. For garden planting, sow seeds thinly, about 1cm deep in rows, spacing them 30cm apart. Expect germination within 7-20 days. Once seedlings emerge, thin them to 25cm apart for optimal growth. Regular sowing throughout the summer ensures a steady harvest. Late-season sowing is also possible for winter usage.

Crush seed shells before sowing.

What Coriander Needs

Watering: Avoid overwatering as coriander dislikes soggy conditions. Feeding: Coriander plants don’t normally need feeding, but the occasional balanced fertiliser help. Pruning: Unless you want to harvest the seeds, remove any flower stems as soon as they start to develop.

Growing Coriander Across the Season

Summer

For a successional harvest throughout summer, sow seeds every two weeks

Spring

Sow coriander seeds in early spring and plant out after the last frosts.

Autumn

Pull old plants in autumn and sow seedlings indoor for windowsill plants.

Winter

Sow and grow coriander indoors for protection from frosts.

Coriander S.O.S.

Growing coriander, also known as cilantro, is generally straightforward and rewarding. For successful growth, plant coriander in neutral to acidic soil that drains well. Avoiding the intense heat of summer is crucial for a healthy plant. Regularly moisten the soil to keep it damp but be careful to prevent water logging. Coriander plants don't depend heavily on fertilisers, but a light, occasional liquid feed can be beneficial. One of the main challenges in growing coriander is preventing it from bolting, especially in inappropriate conditions. If you're growing coriander in pots, shifting it to a cooler, shaded area during hot weather can help reduce bolting. It's best to avoid transplanting coriander as much as possible, as it doesn't respond well to root disturbances. When necessary, handle the roots gently, ensuring to keep ample soil around them. Pests like slugs, snails, aphids, and whiteflies may pose threats to your coriander plants. Employ barriers, biocontrols, and natural repellents to manage these pests effectively. Also, watch out for mildew and damping-off, which can be countered by avoiding overcrowding and overwatering. Remember, most problems with coriander cultivation are easily solved, so don't be deterred from growing this versatile herb.

How to Grow Coriander

Summer

Spring

Autumn

Winter

Avoid root disturbance.