How to Plant Coriander in a Pot

Coriander, also known as cilantro or Chinese parsley, is a pungent herb that is widely used in cooking. Growing coriander in a pot is a great way to ensure a fresh supply of the herb all year round. In this article, we will discuss how to plant coriander in a pot, the steps involved and tips to ensure a healthy harvest of the herb.

Step 1: Selecting the Pot

The first step in planting coriander in a pot is to select a suitable pot. The pot should be at least 6 inches deep and have drainage holes at the bottom to ensure that excess water drains away. It is important to select a pot that is large enough to accommodate the plant when it grows.

Step 2: Preparing the Soil

The next step is to prepare the soil for planting. Coriander prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a potting mix that is designed for herbs or mix some compost and sand into your regular potting soil to make it suitable for coriander. Fill the pot with soil leaving about an inch of space at the top.

Step 3: Planting the Coriander Seeds

Coriander seeds can be planted directly into the pot or started in small pots and then transplanted when they grow larger. To plant the seeds, make small holes in the soil and place the seeds in the holes. Cover the seeds with soil and water well.

Step 4: Watering and Fertilizing

After planting the seeds, water the soil thoroughly but avoid over-watering as coriander does not like waterlogged soil. Allow the soil to dry out between watering. If the soil looks dry, water the pot until the water comes out of the drainage holes. Fertilize the soil with a balanced fertilizer after about four weeks of planting the seeds to ensure healthy plant growth.

Step 5: Harvesting the Coriander

Coriander can be harvested in about six to eight weeks from planting. To harvest, snip off the outer leaves of the plant with scissors leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. Frequent harvesting encourages the plant to grow more leaves and prolongs the harvest. Coriander can be used fresh or dried for later use.

Tips to Ensure Healthy Coriander Growth

Coriander does best in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. If you are planting coriander indoors, place the pot near a south-facing window where it can receive adequate sunlight. Coriander can attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. You can control these pests by spraying the plants with a mixture of water and soap or an organic insecticide. Make sure to remove any dead leaves or flowers from the plant to prevent fungal diseases.

With these steps and tips, you can easily grow coriander in a pot and enjoy a fresh supply of the herb all year round. Happy planting!