Quick notes
- Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, learning how to grow cilantro in Southern California is a rewarding experience that will bring fresh flavor to your dishes.
- This can be achieved by using a shade cloth or planting your cilantro in a location that receives dappled sunlight.
- While regular cilantro is a great choice for Southern California, there are a few other varieties that might be even better suited to the climate.
Southern California’s sunny climate and long growing season make it an ideal location for cultivating a vibrant herb garden. And what better herb to add to your culinary repertoire than the aromatic and versatile cilantro? Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, learning how to grow cilantro in Southern California is a rewarding experience that will bring fresh flavor to your dishes.
Understanding Cilantro’s Needs
Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a cool-season annual herb that thrives in mild temperatures. In Southern California‘s warm climate, it’s best to plant cilantro during the fall or spring to avoid the intense summer heat.
Choosing the Right Spot
Cilantro prefers a sunny location with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in the scorching summer months, some shade during the hottest part of the day can be beneficial. Choose a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Starting from Seed
Cilantro is easily grown from seed. Here’s how to get started:
1. Direct Sowing: Sow cilantro seeds directly into the soil about 1/4 inch deep and 6-8 inches apart. Keep the soil consistently moist.
2. Starting Indoors: For a head start, you can start cilantro seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Plant the seeds in seed trays or small pots filled with seed starting mix. Water thoroughly and keep the trays in a warm, sunny location.
3. Thinning: Once the cilantro seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, thin them out to 6-8 inches apart.
Watering and Feeding
Cilantro needs consistent moisture, especially when it’s young. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
To give your cilantro a boost, you can fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Harvesting Your Cilantro
Cilantro is ready for harvest when the leaves are about 3 inches tall. Cut the stems just above the soil line to encourage new growth. For best flavor, harvest cilantro in the morning after the dew has dried.
Protecting Your Cilantro
While cilantro is relatively pest-resistant, it can be susceptible to aphids and whiteflies. These pesky insects can suck the sap from your plants, causing them to wilt and weaken. To deter pests, consider using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Keeping Cilantro Thriving in the Southern California Sun
The key to successfully growing cilantro in Southern California is to provide it with the right conditions, especially during the summer months. Here are a few tips:
- Summer Shade: Consider providing some shade for your cilantro during the hottest part of the day, especially in the summer. This can be achieved by using a shade cloth or planting your cilantro in a location that receives dappled sunlight.
- Watering: During the summer, you may need to water your cilantro more frequently to keep the soil moist. Check the soil moisture regularly and water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Successive Planting: To ensure a continuous supply of fresh cilantro, try planting a new batch of seeds every 4-6 weeks.
Beyond the Basics: Cilantro Varieties for Southern California
While regular cilantro is a great choice for Southern California, there are a few other varieties that might be even better suited to the climate:
- ‘Long Standing’ Cilantro: This variety is known for its heat tolerance and its ability to produce leaves for a longer period.
- ‘Caliente’ Cilantro: As its name suggests, this variety is also known for its heat tolerance.
- ‘Italian’ Cilantro: This variety has a slightly milder flavor than regular cilantro and is known for its longer leaves.
A Final Word: Enjoy Your Fresh Cilantro!
Growing cilantro in Southern California is a rewarding experience that will bring fresh flavor to your dishes. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of this aromatic herb throughout the year.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: How long does it take for cilantro to grow?
A: Cilantro typically takes about 4-6 weeks to mature from seed.
Q: Can you grow cilantro in a pot?
A: Yes, cilantro can be grown successfully in pots. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and make sure it has drainage holes.
Q: What are some good companion plants for cilantro?
A: Cilantro pairs well with other herbs like basil, parsley, and dill. It also benefits from being planted near tomatoes and peppers.
Q: What happens if cilantro bolts?
A: When cilantro bolts, it means it’s starting to flower. The leaves will become bitter and less flavorful. To prevent bolting, you can harvest cilantro regularly and pinch off any flower buds that appear.
