Container Plant Information: Cilantro

How To Grow

1. Choose a Container: Select a container that is at least 6-8 inches deep with drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to escape.
2. Select Cilantro Seeds or Seedlings: Decide whether you want to start with cilantro seeds or seedlings. Seeds offer more variety options, while seedlings provide a quicker start.
3. Prepare the Container: Fill the container with well-draining potting soil. You can mix in some compost for added nutrients.
4. Plant Cilantro Seeds or Seedlings: If planting seeds, sow them directly onto the soil surface and cover lightly with a thin layer of soil. If using seedlings, plant them at the same depth as they were in their nursery containers.
5. Water the Soil: Give the soil a good watering after planting to ensure it’s evenly moist. Cilantro prefers consistently moist soil, so water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.
6. Provide Partial Sunlight: Cilantro thrives in partial sunlight, so place the container in a location where it will receive about 4-6 hours of sunlight per day. It can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates.
7. Fertilize Occasionally: Cilantro doesn’t require heavy feeding, but you can fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
8. Keep the Soil Moist: Cilantro prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate brief periods of dryness. Water it regularly, especially during hot weather, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
9. Harvest Regularly: Harvest cilantro leaves regularly to encourage continuous growth and prevent bolting (flowering). You can harvest the leaves as needed for cooking.
10. Watch for Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids or spider mites, and treat them promptly if necessary. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases.

Check out our detailed guide to grow cilantro in a container.