How To Plant Coriander Seeds:
How to Plant Coriander Seeds: A Simple Guide for Every Gardener
Coriander, sometimes called cilantro, is a popular herb that’s easy to grow and super rewarding. Whether you’re after its fresh leaves, fragrant seeds, or even its roots for cooking, learning how to grow coriander plant from seed is worth the effort. Let’s break it down step by step so anyone can do it, even if you’re new to gardening!
Pick the Perfect Spot
Coriander loves sunshine! It grows best in a sunny spot, but if you’re planting in the heat of summer, a little shade won’t hurt. Extreme heat or frost isn’t ideal, as these conditions can make the coriander herb plant bolt (flower too early), which cuts short its leafy growth. So, knowing when to plant coriander is crucial. Aim for spring or autumn when the temperatures are mild and the plant can thrive.
Sow the Seeds
Here’s where the fun begins. Planting coriander seeds is easy:
- How Long to Soak Coriander Seeds Before Planting: Soaking seeds overnight in water (around 12 hours) can speed up germination by softening the seed coat.
- How Deep to Plant Coriander Seeds: Pop them directly into the soil about 6 mm (1/4 inch) deep. Space them about 20 cm apart, or scatter them over the soil and cover them lightly.
- Timing is Key: Spring and autumn are the best times to sow coriander, as the weather is moderate.
Watering and Care
Coriander isn’t too fussy, but it does need regular attention:
- Water Regularly: Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Deep watering in the morning or evening works best.
- Feed Occasionally: If you notice the plants need a boost, give them a bit of liquid fertilizer designed for leafy greens.
Thin Out the Seedlings
Once the seeds sprout (usually 7–14 days later), you’ll see little plants pop up. To give them enough space to grow, thin them out so they’re about 20–25 cm apart. It’s a bit sad to pull out some seedlings, but trust me, the remaining plants will thank you for it!
Harvest Time!
Coriander grows quickly, and you can start harvesting leaves in just over a month.
For Leaves:
- Snip the outer leaves as you need them, leaving the inner ones to keep growing.
- If you want a longer harvest, pinch off any flower stems as soon as they show up.
For Roots:
- Pull the whole plant out once the roots are big enough. Wash them and use them fresh for cooking.
How to Get Coriander Seeds From Plant:
- Allow the plant to flower and produce seed heads. Once the heads dry out and turn beige, cut them off and gently rub the seeds out. Store them in an airtight container for future planting or use in cooking.
Keep It Going
If you’re growing coriander for its leaves, treat it as a short-term crop. Plant small batches every few weeks, so you always have a fresh supply. If you’re after seeds, plant early in the growing season to give them time to ripen.
Dealing with Pests and Problems
Coriander is pretty tough, but here are a few things to watch out for:
- Slugs and Snails: These pests love young coriander plants. Use barriers or natural repellents to keep them away.
- Bolting: Hot, dry weather can cause coriander to flower too early. Regularly sow new seeds and provide some shade to avoid this.
Why Grow Coriander?
It’s not just about growing an herb—it’s about having a versatile ingredient right at your fingertips. Use the leaves for fresh salads or garnishes, grind the seeds for spices, or add the roots to curries for an extra kick.
In conclusion
Growing coriander is straightforward, and it doesn’t take much effort to enjoy its delicious flavours in your kitchen. So grab some seeds, get planting, and enjoy the journey of growing this fantastic herb! 🌱
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