How to Grow Cilantro All Summer: Expert Tips for a Bountiful Harvest

Are you tired of buying cilantro at the grocery store only to have it wilt and go bad within days? Wouldn’t it be amazing to have a constant supply of fresh, vibrant cilantro right in your own garden? This summer, you can! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to grow cilantro all summer and enjoy its delicious flavor all season long.

Get Started: Choosing the Right Cilantro for Your Garden

The first step to a successful cilantro harvest is selecting the right variety. There are two main types of cilantro:

• Leaf Cilantro: This is the most common type, with delicate, feathery leaves and a strong, citrusy flavor.
• Thai Cilantro: This variety has broader, flatter leaves and a milder flavor.

For a continuous harvest throughout the summer, consider planting both types. You can also experiment with different varieties like “Long Standing” or “Slow Bolt,” known for their longer harvest periods.

Planting Cilantro: Timing and Location

Cilantro thrives in cool weather, making spring and fall the ideal planting times. But with a little planning, you can enjoy fresh cilantro all summer long.

Timing:

• Spring: Sow seeds directly in the ground after the last frost.
• Summer: For a continuous harvest, plant cilantro in succession, every 2-3 weeks, throughout the summer.
• Fall: Sow seeds in late summer for a fall harvest.

Location:

• Sunlight: Cilantro prefers partial shade, especially in hot climates. Aim for 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Soil: Well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.

Sowing Cilantro Seeds: A Simple Process

Cilantro seeds are tiny, so it’s important to sow them correctly:

1. Prepare the Soil: Loosen the soil to a depth of about 1/2 inch and rake it smooth.
2. Sow the Seeds: Scatter the seeds thinly and evenly over the prepared soil.
3. Cover the Seeds: Lightly cover the seeds with soil.
4. Water Gently: Water the soil thoroughly, but avoid overwatering.

Caring for Your Cilantro: The Key to a Bountiful Harvest

Cilantro is a relatively low-maintenance herb, but consistent care will ensure a healthy and productive plant.

Watering:

• Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy.
• Water deeply, but infrequently.
• Avoid overhead watering, which can lead to fungal diseases.

Fertilizing:

• Cilantro is a light feeder.
• Apply a balanced fertilizer every few weeks, or use a compost tea.

Weeding:

• Keep the area around your cilantro plants free of weeds, which can compete for nutrients and water.

Harvesting:

• Harvest cilantro leaves when they reach a few inches in length.
• Pinch off the leaves, or cut them with a sharp knife.
• Harvesting regularly will encourage new growth.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases: Protecting Your Cilantro

While cilantro is relatively pest-resistant, it can be susceptible to certain problems:

Pests:

• Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from cilantro leaves. Use insecticidal soap or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs.
• Caterpillars: Caterpillars can munch on cilantro leaves. Handpick them off or use a natural insecticide like Bacillus thuringiensis.

Diseases:

• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves. Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
• Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot. Make sure the soil drains well.

Fighting Bolting: Extending Your Harvest

Cilantro is a fast-growing herb that tends to “bolt” or produce flowers when temperatures rise. Bolting reduces the flavor and tenderness of the leaves. Here are some tips to prevent bolting:

• Plant in Shade: Provide some shade, especially during the hottest months.
• Succession Planting: Plant new cilantro every few weeks to ensure a continuous supply of fresh leaves.
• Pinch Off Flower Buds: If your cilantro starts to bolt, pinch off the flower buds to encourage leaf growth.

Preserving the Flavor: Storing and Using Cilantro

Fresh cilantro is best enjoyed immediately, but you can store it for a short time.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Wrap cilantro in a damp paper towel and store in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. It should last for up to a week.
• Freezing: Chop cilantro and freeze it in ice cube trays with water or olive oil. You can also freeze cilantro in airtight containers.

Using Cilantro:

• Fresh: Add cilantro to salsas, guacamole, soups, stews, and stir-fries.
• Dried: Dried cilantro can be used in spice blends and rubs.

Enjoy the Bounty: A Summer of Cilantro Delights

Growing cilantro at home is a rewarding experience. With a little planning and care, you can enjoy fresh, flavorful cilantro all summer long. From salads and dips to curries and salsas, the possibilities are endless. So, plant your seeds and get ready to savor the taste of summer!

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: When is the best time to harvest cilantro?

A: Harvest cilantro leaves when they reach a few inches in length. The younger leaves tend to have the best flavor.

Q: Why is my cilantro bolting?

A: Cilantro bolts when it gets too hot. Provide shade, plant in cooler weather, or pinch off the flower buds to encourage leaf growth.

Q: Can I grow cilantro in pots?

A: Yes, cilantro grows well in pots. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and deep.

Q: What are some companion plants for cilantro?

A: Cilantro pairs well with other herbs like basil, parsley, and dill. It also attracts beneficial insects that can help control pests.

Q: Can I replant cilantro seeds from store-bought cilantro?

A: It’s possible, but the seeds from store-bought cilantro may not be as viable as seeds from a reputable source. It’s best to purchase fresh cilantro seeds for planting.