How to Plant Cilantro Seeds in a Pot Outdoors

Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a popular herb used in many dishes for its unique flavor and aroma. Planting cilantro seeds in a pot outdoors is a great way to grow the herb in your garden or balcony. Below are the steps to follow on how to plant cilantro seeds in a pot outdoors.

Choosing the Pot and Soil

Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has good drainage holes. Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, such as compost or peat moss. Cilantro prefers soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.

Planting Cilantro Seeds

Sow the cilantro seeds in the pot around ? inch deep and 2 inches apart. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and pat it down. Water the pot immediately after planting and keep it moist throughout the germination process.

Germination and Growth

Cilantro seeds take around 7 to 10 days to germinate. Once the seedlings appear, thin them out to avoid overcrowding. Leave at least 4 to 6 inches of space between each plant. Cilantro thrives in full sun but can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates. Water the pot frequently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Harvesting Cilantro

Cilantro leaves can be harvested once the plant reaches 6 inches in height. Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the outermost leaves, leaving the inner leaves and stems to continue growing. Cilantro leaves are best used fresh and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.

Tips for Growing Cilantro

Here are some tips to help you grow cilantro successfully:

Plant cilantro in the spring or fall when the weather is cool and mild.

Feed the plant with organic fertilizer every three to four weeks.

Pinch off the flowers to encourage foliage growth and prevent the plant from going to seed.

Consider planting successive crops every two to three weeks to ensure a continuous harvest of fresh cilantro.

By following the steps above and these tips, you can successfully plant cilantro in a pot outdoors and enjoy fresh herbs in your cooking throughout the season.