How Do You Plant Cilantro in a Pot?

Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a plant commonly used in many dishes for its distinctive flavor. While you can easily buy cilantro from the grocery store, planting it in a pot at home can be a budget-friendly option. Not only does this give you easy access to fresh herbs, but it also ensures that your cilantro is organic and free from harmful chemicals.

Choosing the Right Pot

The first step in planting cilantro in a pot is choosing the right container. A pot that is at least 8-10 inches deep and wide is ideal for cilantro growth. You can use terra cotta, plastic or ceramic pots. Make sure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to escape.

Preparing the Soil

Cilantro needs well-drained soil with a neutral pH level of 6.0 to 7.0. You can create this by mixing equal parts of garden soil, sand, and peat moss. Alternatively, you can choose to use a pre-mixed potting soil that is specifically designed for herbs. Fill up the pot with the soil mixture leaving at least 2 inches of space from the top for planting.

Planting the Cilantro

After you have prepared the pot and soil, you are ready to plant the cilantro seeds. Depending on the size of the pot, you can plant 2-3 rows of seeds about a quarter of an inch deep. Keep the seeds about an inch apart to allow them to germinate properly. Once you have planted the seeds, cover them with a thin layer of soil and water gently.

Caring for the Cilantro

After planting the cilantro, it is time to care for it by providing optimal growing conditions. The pot should be placed in a sunny spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Cilantro also requires consistent watering, but be sure not to overwater as this could lead to root rot. You can fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once every two weeks.

Harvesting the Cilantro

After 3-4 weeks of growth, you can start to harvest the cilantro by cutting off the outermost leaves first, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. This will encourage the plant to keep producing fresh growth, resulting in a longer harvest. You can either use the cilantro fresh or store it in the refrigerator for later use.

Conclusion

Planting cilantro in a pot is an easy and affordable way to enjoy this flavorful herb at home. By following these simple steps, you can grow your own cilantro that is organic and free from harmful chemicals. With care and attention, you can successfully harvest fresh cilantro for use in all of your favorite dishes.