Key points
- Cilantro, that bright, aromatic herb that adds a burst of freshness to everything from salsas and guacamole to curries and stir-fries, is a summer favorite.
- While cilantro thrives in cool conditions, with a few tricks you can keep it happy and productive even in the summer heat.
- To store cilantro, wrap the leaves loosely in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.
Cilantro, that bright, aromatic herb that adds a burst of freshness to everything from salsas and guacamole to curries and stir-fries, is a summer favorite. But how to grow cilantro in the summer, when the heat can be intense and the days long? This guide will walk you through the process, from seed to harvest, ensuring you have a bountiful supply of this flavorful herb all season long.
Understanding Cilantro’s Needs
Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a cool-season annual, meaning it thrives in cooler temperatures. While it can tolerate some heat, it will bolt (produce flowers and seeds) quickly in hot weather, making the leaves tough and bitter. This is why learning how to grow cilantro in the summer requires some specific strategies.
Choosing the Right Time to Plant
To ensure a successful summer harvest, it’s crucial to choose the right planting time. The ideal time to sow cilantro seeds is in early spring or late summer/early fall when temperatures are cooler. However, with a little care and some clever techniques, you can still enjoy fresh cilantro throughout the summer.
Finding the Perfect Spot
Cilantro thrives in a sunny location that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily. However, in the summer heat, it’s best to choose a spot that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. This will help prevent the plants from overheating and bolting.
Preparing the Soil
Cilantro prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or aged manure to improve its structure and nutrient content.
Sowing the Seeds
Sow cilantro seeds directly into the garden bed after the last frost. For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every two to three weeks. Here are some tips for sowing:
- Direct Sowing: Plant seeds ¼ inch deep and space them about 6 inches apart.
- Thinning: Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out to 6 inches apart to give them room to grow.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first few weeks after planting.
Summer-Specific Care
While cilantro thrives in cool conditions, with a few tricks you can keep it happy and productive even in the summer heat.
1. Watering: Water deeply and consistently, ensuring the soil stays moist but not soggy. Avoid overhead watering, as this can promote fungal diseases. A good option is to use a drip irrigation system.
2. Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
3. Shade: If the weather becomes exceptionally hot, consider providing some shade for your cilantro plants. You can use shade cloth or grow them under the canopy of taller plants.
4. Harvesting: Harvest cilantro leaves regularly to encourage new growth and prevent bolting. Pick the leaves from the outside of the plant, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing.
5. Succession Planting: To ensure a continuous harvest throughout the summer, sow new cilantro seeds every two to three weeks.
Harvesting and Storing
Once your cilantro plants are about 6 inches tall, you can begin harvesting. Pick the leaves as needed, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. For best flavor, harvest cilantro leaves in the morning, after the dew has dried.
To store cilantro, wrap the leaves loosely in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Cilantro can also be frozen for later use. To freeze cilantro, blanch the leaves in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain the leaves, pat them dry, and freeze them in a freezer-safe bag.
Enjoying Your Summer Cilantro
With a little care and attention, you can enjoy fresh, flavorful cilantro all summer long. Use it to add a bright, herbaceous touch to your favorite dishes, from salsas and guacamole to curries and stir-fries. Experiment with different recipes and enjoy the bounty of your summer garden!
From Seed to Flavor: A Summer Cilantro Journey
Growing cilantro in the summer requires a little extra effort, but the rewards are worth it. By following these tips, you can enjoy fresh, flavorful cilantro all season long, adding a burst of freshness to your summer dishes.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I grow cilantro in containers?
A: Yes, you can definitely grow cilantro in containers. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and deep, and fill it with a well-draining potting mix. Make sure to water regularly and fertilize every few weeks.
Q: Why is my cilantro bolting?
A: Cilantro bolts when it senses hot temperatures. To prevent bolting, try to choose a planting location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. You can also try to harvest the leaves regularly to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from flowering.
Q: Can I save cilantro seeds?
A: Yes, you can save cilantro seeds. Allow the plant to flower and produce seeds. Once the seeds are dry and brown, harvest them and store them in a cool, dry place. You can then plant these seeds the following spring.
Q: What are some pests and diseases that affect cilantro?
A: Cilantro is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To control these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Cilantro can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, water deeply but infrequently and avoid overhead watering.
Q: What can I do with my cilantro after it bolts?
A: While the leaves may be tough and bitter after bolting, you can still use the seeds for flavor. Harvest the seeds when they are dry and brown, and use them to make coriander powder or add them to dishes for a warm, nutty flavor.