How To Grow Cilantro Indoors

Cilantro is a versatile and aromatic herb used in a wide range of dishes, from salsa to curries and salads. Growing cilantro indoors is a fantastic way to have fresh leaves year-round, right at your fingertips. With the right setup, you can successfully cultivate cilantro indoors, even if you don’t have a garden. Here’s everything you need to know.

Choosing the Right Pot and Soil

Cilantro has a deep taproot, so it’s important to choose a pot that’s at least 8-12 inches deep. The pot should have drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom and causing root rot. Use a light, well-draining potting mix, preferably one enriched with organic matter. Avoid garden soil, as it tends to be too heavy for indoor growing and can compact, making it difficult for the roots to spread.

Fill your container with the potting mix, leaving about an inch of space at the top for watering. This will give the cilantro roots plenty of room to grow and allow excess water to drain away.

Planting Cilantro Seeds

Cilantro grows best when started directly from seeds rather than transplants, as the plant can be sensitive to being moved. To plant cilantro seeds, sprinkle them evenly over the surface of the soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil (about a quarter-inch deep). Water the seeds gently to settle them into the soil.

For faster germination, you can soak the seeds in water for 12-24 hours before planting. This helps soften the seed coat and speeds up the sprouting process. Cilantro seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days.

Providing Adequate Light

Cilantro requires plenty of light to thrive indoors. Place your pot in a bright, sunny spot where it can receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. A south-facing window is ideal. If your home doesn’t get enough natural light, consider using a grow light. Position the grow light about 6 inches above the plants and keep it on for 12-14 hours per day to mimic the sun’s natural light cycle.

Without adequate light, cilantro can become leggy and weak, with thin stems and sparse leaves. Providing sufficient light will help your cilantro grow lush and full.

Maintaining Optimal Temperature

Cilantro grows best in cooler temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C). Keep your plants away from drafts, heaters, and radiators, as extreme temperature fluctuations can cause the plant to bolt (flower prematurely). Bolting can affect the flavor of the leaves, making them bitter.

If you notice your cilantro starting to bolt, pinch off the flower stalks as soon as they appear to prolong the leaf production.

Watering Your Cilantro

Cilantro prefers consistently moist soil, but it’s important not to overwater. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. When you water, do so thoroughly until you see water draining from the bottom of the pot. This helps ensure that the roots receive adequate moisture and prevents the soil from becoming waterlogged.

Yellowing leaves are often a sign of overwatering, while wilted leaves may indicate underwatering. Adjust your watering schedule based on the needs of the plant and the humidity in your home.

Fertilizing for Healthy Growth

Cilantro doesn’t need a lot of fertilizer, but feeding it occasionally can boost its growth. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month, or add compost to the soil to provide a steady source of nutrients. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flavor.

Harvesting Cilantro

You can begin harvesting cilantro once the plant is about 4-6 inches tall. Start by snipping off the outer leaves, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. Use sharp scissors or garden shears to cut the leaves about an inch above the soil. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more foliage and prevents it from going to seed too quickly.

For the best flavor, harvest cilantro in the morning when the oils are most concentrated. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant at a time, as this can stress the plant and reduce its overall growth.

Storing Fresh Cilantro

To store freshly harvested cilantro, wrap the stems in a damp paper towel and place them in a resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator. This method helps keep the leaves fresh for up to a week. Alternatively, you can place the stems in a glass of water (like a bouquet) and cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag. Store this in the fridge for longer freshness.

Regrowing Cilantro

Cilantro can regrow from its roots if you leave a few inches of the stem intact during harvesting. After cutting, water the plant well and place it back in a sunny spot. With proper care, the plant will continue to produce new leaves for several weeks.

If your cilantro plant eventually bolts and goes to seed, don’t worry. You can collect the seeds (also known as coriander) for cooking or for planting new cilantro plants. Simply let the seeds dry on the plant, then harvest and store them in an airtight container.

Dealing with Common Problems

Cilantro is generally a resilient herb, but it can encounter a few issues indoors. Leggy growth is a common problem caused by insufficient light. Make sure your cilantro is getting enough sunlight or supplement with a grow light. Aphids and spider mites can occasionally appear, especially if the air is dry. If you notice pests, rinse the plant with water or use a gentle insecticidal soap.

If your cilantro starts turning yellow, it could be a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Check the soil and ensure that the pot has adequate drainage holes. Adjust your watering schedule as needed.

Conclusion

Growing cilantro indoors is a simple and rewarding way to have fresh herbs at your fingertips all year long. With proper light, consistent watering, and a little patience, you can enjoy the vibrant flavor of cilantro in your cooking whenever you need it. Whether you use it in salsas, curries, or salads, homegrown cilantro will elevate your dishes with its fresh, zesty taste.

Happy growing, and enjoy the fresh taste of cilantro straight from your indoor garden!