Cilantro Santo is a robust herb designed for gardeners seeking extended harvests and high-quality leaves. Its bushy growth and slow-bolting nature make it ideal for continuous production. The aromatic leaves are perfect for fresh use in tacos, salads, and garnishes, while the seeds enhance pickling and spice blends. This dependable variety thrives in garden beds or pots.
Cilantro Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow cilantro seeds outdoors in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, or in late summer for a fall harvest. Cilantro thrives in cool weather and tolerates light frost.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot or partial shade in hotter climates. Cilantro grows best in well-draining, moderately fertile soil.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and incorporate compost to improve fertility. Cilantro prefers soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds 1/4-1/2 inch deep and space them 6 inches apart in rows.
- Thin seedlings to maintain proper spacing once they are a few inches tall.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist until seeds germinate, which typically takes 7-10 days. Consistent moisture ensures tender, flavorful leaves.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start cilantro seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last expected frost date for an early start.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds 1/4-1/2 inch deep, scattering them thinly over the soil surface.
- Cover lightly with soil and mist gently to keep the soil evenly moist.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 7-10 days.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and plants have at least 2-3 sets of true leaves. Space plants 6 inches apart.
General Care Tips for Cilantro
- Sunlight: Provide full sun for best growth. Cilantro tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer climates.
- Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Regular watering helps prevent bolting and ensures tender leaves.
- Fertilizing: Enrich the soil with compost before planting. Cilantro is a light feeder and rarely requires additional fertilization during its short growing season.
- Pruning: Regularly harvest leaves to encourage new growth and delay bolting. Remove flower stalks if you want to extend the leaf harvest.
- Pest and Disease Control: Cilantro is relatively pest- and disease-resistant. Proper spacing and well-draining soil help prevent fungal issues.
- Harvesting:
- For Leaves: Begin harvesting leaves when the plant is 6 inches tall. Snip outer leaves as needed, leaving the central stems to continue growing.
- For Seeds: Allow the flowers to mature into seeds (coriander). Harvest seeds when they turn brown and begin to dry on the plant.
- Storage: Store fresh leaves in a damp paper towel in the refrigerator for up to a week. Dry coriander seeds and store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to a year.
