Cilantro
cool-season crop
At a glance
| Suitable zone groups | All four zone groups (3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10), as a cool-season annual |
|---|---|
| Planting window | See the guide text below, in general terms relative to your last spring frost |
| Sun | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil | Moist, well-draining soil |
| Watering | Regular watering, keep soil moist |
About this plant
Cilantro provides fresh, fragrant leaves for everyday cooking. Grow it in all four zone groups (3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10) as a cool-season annual, choosing full sun to partial shade.
Use moist, well-draining soil and water regularly to keep it moist. A cool growing season and gentle harvesting help keep the plant producing useful leaves.
Common beginner failures and fixes
- Plants flower before many leaves are picked: Grow during the cool season and harvest leaves regularly while they are tender.
- Seedlings wilt in dry soil: Check moisture often and water regularly so the soil stays moist.
- Roots sit in soggy soil: Improve drainage and use containers with open drainage holes.
- Crowded plants grow weakly: Thin seedlings so each plant has space for leafy growth and airflow.
Beginner checklist
- Plan for a cool-season annual in your zone group.
- Choose full sun to partial shade.
- Prepare moist, well-draining soil.
- Water regularly to keep the soil moist.
- Pick tender leaves before flowering takes over.
Zone groups and planting windows here are general guidance. Confirm your own zone and last frost date locally before planting.