Key points
- With a little know-how and a few simple steps, you can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh cilantro throughout the year.
- To create a humid environment, cover the pot with plastic wrap and place it in a warm location.
- Fill the pot with potting mix and create a small hole in the center.
Are you a cilantro lover but tired of the short shelf life of store-bought bunches? Want to enjoy fresh, flavorful cilantro right from your kitchen window? Then learning how to grow cilantro plant indoors is the perfect solution!
This aromatic herb thrives in warm temperatures and bright light, making it an ideal candidate for indoor gardening. With a little know-how and a few simple steps, you can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh cilantro throughout the year.
Getting Started: Choosing the Right Cilantro and Potting Mix
Before you start growing your cilantro indoors, you’ll need to select the right type and prepare the appropriate environment.
Picking the Perfect Cilantro
- Choose the right variety: While most cilantro varieties are suitable for indoor growing, some are more compact and ideal for containers. Look for varieties like “Cilantro Bunching” or “Italian Giant Leaf Cilantro” for optimal indoor results.
- Start from seeds: Starting from seeds gives you more control over the growth process and allows you to select your preferred variety. Look for fresh, high-quality seeds from a reputable source.
- Consider buying seedlings: For a quicker harvest, you can purchase cilantro seedlings from a local nursery or garden center. However, be sure to choose healthy seedlings with vibrant green leaves and no signs of disease or pests.
Setting up Your Cilantro’s Home
- Select a pot: Choose a pot with good drainage holes and a size appropriate for your cilantro plant. A 6-8 inch pot is a good starting point.
- Choose the right potting mix: A well-draining potting mix is essential for cilantro. Avoid heavy clay-based mixes and opt for a light, airy mix formulated for herbs or vegetables.
- Add fertilizer: A balanced, slow-release fertilizer will provide your cilantro with the nutrients it needs to thrive.
Planting Your Cilantro Indoors
Now that you have the right cilantro and potting mix, it’s time to plant your seeds or seedlings.
Planting Cilantro Seeds
- Sow the seeds: Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep in the potting mix and space them about 1 inch apart. Gently water the soil.
- Cover with plastic wrap: To create a humid environment, cover the pot with plastic wrap and place it in a warm location. This will help the seeds germinate faster.
- Maintain moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Once the seeds germinate, remove the plastic wrap.
Transplanting Cilantro Seedlings
- Prepare the pot: Fill the pot with potting mix and create a small hole in the center.
- Gently remove the seedling: Carefully remove the seedling from its container, ensuring you don’t damage the roots.
- Plant the seedling: Place the seedling in the hole and gently backfill with potting mix. Water thoroughly.
Providing the Right Conditions for Indoor Cilantro Growth
Cilantro thrives in bright, indirect light and warm temperatures. Providing these optimal conditions will ensure healthy growth and a bountiful harvest.
Light and Temperature
- Bright, indirect light: Cilantro needs at least 6 hours of bright, indirect light per day. A sunny windowsill is ideal. If your window doesn’t provide enough light, consider using a grow light.
- Warm temperature: Cilantro prefers temperatures between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing your plant near drafts or cold windows.
Watering and Fertilizing
- Water regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilize monthly: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every month.
Harvesting and Maintaining Your Indoor Cilantro
Once your cilantro plants are established, you can start harvesting fresh leaves.
Harvesting Cilantro
- Harvesting leaves: Start harvesting leaves when they are about 4 inches long. Cut the leaves just above the soil line.
- Regular harvesting: Harvesting leaves regularly will encourage new growth and prevent the plant from bolting (producing flowers).
Maintaining Your Cilantro
- Pinch off flower buds: If you notice flower buds forming, pinch them off to encourage leaf growth.
- Repot as needed: As your cilantro grows, you may need to repot it into a larger pot to accommodate its root system.
The Final Word: Cilantro Success Beyond the Kitchen
Growing cilantro indoors is a rewarding experience that brings the freshness of the garden right into your kitchen. By following these steps, you can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh cilantro for your culinary creations.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: How long does it take for cilantro to grow indoors?
A: From seed, it takes about 4-6 weeks for cilantro to be ready for harvesting. If you start with seedlings, you can harvest leaves within a few weeks.
Q: Can I grow cilantro year-round indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow cilantro year-round indoors by providing the right conditions, such as adequate light and warmth.
Q: What are some common problems when growing cilantro indoors?
A: Common problems include pests like aphids and spider mites, fungal diseases like powdery mildew, and bolting (producing flowers).
Q: What can I do to prevent cilantro from bolting?
A: Harvesting leaves regularly and pinching off flower buds can help prevent bolting.
Q: What are some other herbs I can grow indoors?
A: Many other herbs, such as basil, mint, parsley, and chives, can also be successfully grown indoors.
