How to Grow Cilantro: Best Practices for Growing Cilantro Indoors & Outdoors
Cilantro. Coriander. These two names refer to the same bright green herb, yet they evoke wildly different reactions. For some, it's a burst of fresh, citrusy flavour that elevates dishes to new heights. For others, it's a soapy, almost metallic taste that ruins everything it touches. The cilantro divide is real, and it's a fascinating example of how our taste buds can differ so dramatically.
Love it or hate it, cilantro is surprisingly easy to grow at home! Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to grow cilantro! Click on each section to learn more.
Got a cilantro conundrum? We're here to help! HowToGardenz is your go-to community for all things herbs and beyond. Are you a garden center owner or have a fantastic product that fellow gardeners would love? Let's collaborate! Reach out to us today and let's grow something amazing together.
1. Types of Cilantro and Which Should You Grow?
It’s easy to learn how to grow cilantro! Image: Pixabay.
Thinking about growing cilantro? Cilantro is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. With a little care, you can enjoy fresh cilantro from your garden all season long.
Here's a breakdown of the main types and which might be best for your garden:
Leaf Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)
This is the most common type, with flat leaves and that classic cilantro flavour. It's versatile and used in tons of dishes. Varieties include:
Santo: Slow to bolt, good for leaf production.
Leisure': Heat tolerant, another slow bolter.
Confetti: Feathery leaves, a bit milder flavour, pretty as a garnish.
Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)
These are the seeds of the cilantro plant, providing you with your own coriander spice.
Vietnamese Cilantro (Persicaria odorata)
If you like Southeast Asian cuisine, it's a must-have. It's more heat-tolerant than regular cilantro and has a spicier flavour.
While a different plant, it has a super strong cilantro-like flavor.
To find the perfect cilantro, think about your favourite recipes and where you will be growing it.
2. How to Grow Cilantro Indoors
Watch the above video to learn how to grow cilantro indoors.
Growing cilantro indoors is totally doable and can provide you with fresh herbs year-round! Here's a breakdown of how to do it successfully:
Choose the Right Container: Cilantro needs good drainage, so pick a pot with drainage holes. It also has a taproot, so a pot that's at least 6-8 inches deep is ideal. You can use terracotta, plastic, or even upcycled containers.
Use Quality Potting Mix: Regular garden soil is too dense for containers. Opt for a light and airy potting mix designed for herbs or vegetables. You can also mix in some perlite or vermiculite for extra drainage.
Start with Seeds: Cilantro doesn't transplant well, so it's best to start from seed. You can find seeds at most garden centers. Plant seeds about ¼ inch deep and cover lightly with potting mix. Water gently but thoroughly.
Provide Enough Light: Cilantro needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. A south-facing window is usually best. If you don't have enough natural light, consider using a grow light.
Keep it Cool: Cilantro prefers cooler temperatures (60-75°F). If it gets too hot, it may bolt (go to seed) prematurely.
Water Regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Harvest Regularly: Start harvesting leaves when the plants are about 4-6 inches tall. Snip off the outer leaves, allowing the inner ones to continue growing.
Pinch Back: To encourage bushier growth, pinch back the tips of the stems when the plants are young.
Prevent Bolting: If you notice flower buds forming, pinch them off to delay bolting.
Succession Planting: Cilantro is an annual, meaning it will eventually go to seed and die. To have a continuous supply, sow new seeds every few weeks.
By following these tips, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown cilantro indoors all year round!
3. How to Grow Cilantro Outdoors: Pots vs Raised Bed vs Garden
Cilantro can also be grown outdoors. Image: Pixabay.
Cilantro is a fast-growing herb that can be easily grown outdoors. Whether you choose to grow it in pots, raised beds, or directly in the garden, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a successful harvest.
Pots
The above video explains how to grow cilantro outside in pots.
Pros:
Easy to move around to follow the sun or provide shade as needed.
Can be placed on patios or balconies for easy access.
Good option for those with limited garden space.
Cons:
Can dry out quickly, requiring more frequent watering.
Limited space for root growth, which can affect plant size and yield.
Method
1. Pot size: Select a pot at least 6-8 inches deep and wide to accommodate cilantro's taproot and provide adequate space for growth.
2. Potting mix: Use one formulated for herbs or vegetables.
3. Planting: Sow cilantro seeds directly into the pot in early spring, about ¼ inch deep, and cover lightly with potting mix.
4. Location and Care: Place the pot in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
5. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
6. Fertilizing: Cilantro is a light feeder. You can fertilize once or twice during the growing season
Raised Bed vs In-Ground Garden
Raised Bed – Pros:
Better soil control: You can fill beds with well-draining, nutrient-rich soil perfect for cilantro.
Improved drainage: Raised beds allow excess water to drain more easily, preventing root rot.
Fewer weeds: Elevated beds tend to have fewer weed problems.
Easier access: Less bending and kneeling makes gardening more comfortable.
Raised Bed – Cons:
Initial setup cost: Materials and soil to build a bed can be expensive.
Can dry out faster: Elevated soil warms and dries out more quickly, requiring more frequent watering.
In-Ground Garden – Pros:
No cost to start: If your soil is healthy, you can plant directly without extra materials.
More room to grow: Ideal if you’re growing large amounts of cilantro or companion planting.
Moisture retention: Ground soil often retains moisture longer than raised beds or pots.
In-Ground Garden – Cons:
Soil challenges: May require amending if compacted or low in nutrients.
Weeds and pests: You may have more trouble with weeds and crawling insects.
Method (For Both Raised Bed and Garden Planting)
Site Selection: Choose a location that receives 4–6 hours of sunlight per day. Cilantro can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Soil Prep: Use well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Work in compost to improve fertility and drainage. Ideal pH: 6.2–6.8.
Sowing Seeds: Sow seeds directly into the soil in early spring or late summer. Plant seeds ¼ inch deep, spaced 1–2 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulch can help retain moisture and reduce weeds.
Thinning: Once seedlings are 2 inches tall, thin them to about 6 inches apart to allow for proper growth and airflow.
Fertilizing: Fertilize lightly once or twice during the growing season using a balanced organic fertilizer.
No matter which method you choose, cilantro thrives when you start with good soil and stay on top of watering.
Raised beds offer convenience and control, while in-ground gardens give you more space and natural moisture retention. Choose the method that fits your space and time — and enjoy fresh cilantro all season long!
4. How to Grow Cilantro from Clippings
While cilantro is most commonly grown from seeds, it can be propagated from clippings—though with some limitations. Cilantro stems don’t root as reliably as other herbs like basil or mint, but with the right conditions and a bit of patience, it’s worth a try if you want to experiment.
Pros:
Faster than growing from seed if rooting is successful.
Cost-effective way to multiply your existing cilantro plants.
Great learning activity for beginner gardeners or kids.
Cons:
Lower success rate compared to other herbs.
Rooting is not guaranteed, and not all stems will take.
Plants may bolt quickly, producing flowers and seeds instead of lush leaves.
Method
Choose a Healthy Stem: Select a fresh, healthy cilantro stem that's at least 4–6 inches long and has several sets of leaves. Make a clean cut just below a node (the spot where leaves attach to the stem).
Remove Lower Leaves: Gently strip the leaves from the bottom half of the stem to expose nodes, which is where roots are most likely to form.
Place in Water: Put the stem in a glass of water, making sure the stripped part is submerged. Avoid letting any leaves sit in the water, as they’ll rot.
Provide Light and Warmth: Set the glass in a warm, sunny window that receives indirect light. Avoid harsh afternoon sun which may cause the cutting to wilt.
Wait for Roots to Develop: Change the water every couple of days to keep it clean. If rooting is successful, you’ll see fine white roots start to form within 10–14 days.
Transplant to Soil: Once the roots are 1–2 inches long, gently plant the cutting in a small pot or directly in the garden or raised bed. Keep the soil moist and shaded for the first few days to help the plant acclimate.
While growing cilantro from clippings isn’t a guaranteed method, it’s a fun and easy way to experiment. If you succeed, you’ll have a head start on a new cilantro plant—no seed packet required!
5. How to Grow Cilantro from Seeds
Growing cilantro from seeds is the most reliable and rewarding way to cultivate this fragrant, fast-growing herb. Whether you're planting indoors or outdoors, direct sowing is typically the best approach since cilantro has a delicate taproot that doesn’t transplant well.
Pros:
High germination success rate when sown directly in soil.
Cost-effective—a single seed packet yields many plants.
Wider variety options available compared to starter plants or clippings.
Cons:
Requires thinning after sprouting.
May bolt quickly in hot weather, shortening the harvest window.
Method
Choose the Right Time: Cilantro prefers cool weather. Sow seeds in early spring (as soon as the soil can be worked) or late summer/early fall for a second harvest. For continuous supply, sow every 2–3 weeks.
Prepare the Soil: Use well-draining soil rich in organic matter. The ideal pH is between 6.2 and 6.8. Loosen the top few inches and remove debris.
Sow the Seeds: Cilantro seeds are actually two seeds in one husk. You can lightly crush them before planting to speed up germination, but it’s not required.
Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep and 1–2 inches apart.
Space rows about 12 inches apart for proper air circulation.
Water Gently: Water lightly and keep the soil consistently moist (but not soggy) until seedlings emerge—usually within 7–10 days.
Thin the Seedlings: Once the plants are 2 inches tall, thin them to about 6 inches apart to allow for proper growth and airflow.
Sunlight: Cilantro needs 4–6 hours of sunlight per day. In hot climates, choose a spot with some afternoon shade to delay bolting.
Ongoing Care:
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist.
Fertilizer: Cilantro is a light feeder; you can fertilize once or twice during the season with a balanced, organic fertilizer.
Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
Starting cilantro from seed gives you the most control over your herb garden and a longer, more productive growing season—especially when you stagger plantings for a continuous harvest.
6. Troubleshooting and Pest Control: Common Cilantro Pests and Diseases
Cilantro is a relatively low-maintenance herb, but it’s not immune to garden pests and diseases—especially in warm, humid, or poorly drained conditions. Catching issues early and taking simple preventive steps can keep your cilantro thriving all season.
Common Pests
Aphids
Signs: Clusters of tiny green, black, or white bugs on stems and undersides of leaves; sticky residue (honeydew).
Fix: Spray with a strong stream of water or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Cutworms
Signs: Seedlings are chewed through at soil level, often overnight.
Fix: Use cardboard collars around seedlings or sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base.
Armyworms & Caterpillars
Signs: Large holes in leaves, visible caterpillars.
Fix: Handpick caterpillars or apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a natural bacterium that targets them.
Leafhoppers
Signs: Yellowing or stippling of leaves, reduced growth.
Fix: Remove infested leaves and consider floating row covers to keep pests off young plants.
Common Diseases
Powdery Mildew
Signs: White, powdery coating on leaves, usually in humid or crowded conditions.
Fix: Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and use a fungicidal spray if needed.
Damping-Off (Seedling Rot)
Signs: Seedlings wilt and collapse due to fungal pathogens in overly wet soil.
Fix: Use sterile seed-starting mix, don’t overwater, and ensure good drainage.
Leaf Spot (Bacterial or Fungal)
Signs: Small brown or black spots on leaves that may spread.
Fix: Remove affected leaves, avoid wetting foliage, and rotate crops yearly to reduce recurrence.
Prevention Tips
Proper Spacing: Plant cilantro 6 inches apart to ensure good airflow.
Water at Soil Level: Avoid overhead watering to minimize fungal risk.
Mulch: Helps retain moisture and prevent soil-borne pathogens from splashing onto leaves.
Crop Rotation: Avoid planting cilantro in the same spot each year to prevent disease build-up.
Inspect Regularly: Catch pest or disease problems early before they spread.
Healthy cilantro starts with healthy habits. By staying alert and maintaining clean, well-drained growing conditions, you’ll minimize pest problems and keep your herb patch productive and flavorful.
7. How to Pick Cilantro So It Keeps Growing
Harvesting cilantro the right way not only gives you fresh, flavorful leaves but also encourages the plant to keep producing. If picked improperly or too aggressively, cilantro can bolt (go to seed) quickly—especially in warm weather.
Pros of Proper Harvesting:
Prolongs the harvest window by delaying bolting
Encourages bushier growth and more leaves
Gives you a steady supply of fresh cilantro for weeks
Best Practices for Harvesting Cilantro
Start Early – But Not Too Early: Begin harvesting once plants are about 6 inches tall and have enough mature leaves. Avoid cutting too early or taking more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Use Clean, Sharp Scissors or Fingers: Pinch or snip stems just above a leaf node (where new leaves are forming). This encourages the plant to branch out and produce more leaves.
Harvest in the Morning: Pick cilantro in the early morning when the essential oils (and flavor) are at their peak.
Focus on Outer Stems First: Start by harvesting the outer, older stems and leave the inner, younger ones to continue growing.
Regular Harvesting Is Key: Pick cilantro every few days—even if you don’t need it all—to keep it from getting leggy and flowering too soon.
What to Avoid
Never cut the entire plant at once unless you're at the end of the season or plan to harvest for coriander seeds.
Don’t wait too long between harvests, or the plant may start to bolt, especially in hot weather.
Avoid pulling up the plant when picking—cilantro has a taproot and doesn’t respond well to being disturbed.
By harvesting cilantro the right way, you can keep the plant leafy, fresh, and productive for much longer—giving you more bang for your gardening buck.
8. Companion Planting: Best Plants to Grow with Cilantro
Cilantro is more than just a tasty herb—it’s a team player in the garden. When used in companion planting, it can help improve nearby plants' health, deter pests, and even attract beneficial insects. The key is to pair it with plants that enjoy similar growing conditions.
Best Companion Plants for Cilantro
Tomatoes
Why it works: Cilantro attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps that help control tomato pests like aphids and hornworms.
Bonus: The partial shade from tomato plants can help keep cilantro cool and delay bolting.
Spinach
Why it works: Both thrive in cooler weather and can be planted around the same time. Cilantro’s scent can help repel pests like spider mites.
Basil
Why it works: While basil prefers slightly warmer temperatures, it grows well near cilantro early in the season and can benefit from pest-repelling compounds released by cilantro.
Lettuce
Why it works: Lettuce loves the cooler, shaded conditions cilantro can help provide. Cilantro’s aroma may also keep aphids away from tender lettuce leaves.
Peppers
Why it works: Cilantro attracts predators of common pepper pests. Plus, both benefit from regular watering and well-drained soil.
Carrots
Why it works: As members of the same family (Apiaceae), carrots and cilantro have similar growing requirements. Cilantro may help deter carrot flies.
Dill & Anise
Why it works: These aromatic herbs attract similar pollinators and beneficial insects, and they won’t compete aggressively with cilantro.
Plants to Avoid Near Cilantro
Fennel: It releases compounds that inhibit the growth of nearby plants, including cilantro.
Lavender & Rosemary: These herbs prefer dry, sandy soil and full sun—conditions cilantro doesn’t enjoy.
Tips for Successful Companion Planting with Cilantro
Spacing: Make sure plants have enough room for airflow and root growth to prevent disease.
Watering: Cilantro prefers consistently moist soil, so choose companions with similar watering needs.
Succession Planting: Since cilantro bolts quickly, plan for multiple plantings or rotate in heat-tolerant companions as the season progresses.
With the right companions, cilantro not only grows better—it helps the whole garden thrive!
9. Cilantro: The Science Behind the Divide
Cilantro is one of the most polarizing herbs in the kitchen. While some people love its fresh, citrusy flavor, others describe it as soapy or metallic. This strong divide isn’t just about personal taste—it’s rooted in science.
Why Does Cilantro Taste Like Soap to Some People?
The culprit is genetics. Specifically, a gene called OR6A2 is linked to a heightened sensitivity to aldehyde compounds found in cilantro. These same compounds are also found in soaps and cleaning products, which is why some people have that unpleasant reaction.
If you have the OR6A2 gene variant: You're more likely to perceive cilantro as soapy.
If you don’t: You probably just enjoy its bright, herbaceous flavor without issue.
A 2012 study from the Monell Chemical Senses Center and 23andMe found that up to 14% of people of European descent have a genetic aversion to cilantro, though the numbers vary across different ethnic backgrounds.
What’s Actually in Cilantro?
Cilantro contains a mix of aromatic compounds, including:
E-2-alkenal and E-2-alkenal aldehydes – Contribute to the soap-like flavor some people detect.
Linalool and decanal – More pleasant, citrusy aromas that most people enjoy.
Your perception of these depends heavily on how your brain and olfactory system interpret them, which is why cilantro can be divisive even among family members.
Can You Train Yourself to Like Cilantro?
Interestingly, yes—exposure therapy works for some people. Studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that repeated exposure to cilantro, especially when blended or cooked, can reduce the intensity of the soapy flavor and help people acquire a taste for it.
Try these tips:
Use it in cooked dishes first: Heat mellows the flavor.
Pair it with lime or lemon: Acid balances the herbal notes and masks bitterness.
Chop it finely: Smaller pieces can be less overwhelming on the palate.
Whether you love cilantro or avoid it like the plague may come down to your genes. But understanding the science behind the divide can help you appreciate why this humble herb sparks such strong opinions—and maybe even give it a second chance on your plate.
How to Gardenz: Your Ultimate Resource for Cilantro
Thinking about growing your own fresh, fragrant cilantro but not sure where to begin? How to Gardenz is your go-to resource for cultivating healthy, flavorful cilantro—indoors or out.
From choosing the best seeds or clippings to mastering harvest techniques that keep your plants producing, our expert-backed content gives you everything you need to succeed.
Join a growing community of herb enthusiasts, swap growing tips, troubleshoot common issues, and get inspired to make every cilantro crop better than the last.
Ready to add a burst of garden-fresh flavor to your meals? Let How to Gardenz be your companion in growing vibrant, homegrown cilantro all season long.