The names, coriander and cilantro are often used interchangeably. However, purists say that coriander refers to the seed. Cilantro refers to the leaves. Now I know!
Some coriander plants are specifically for their seeds. Or after plant has bolted, can collect seeds. Others are grown specifically for the cilantro (leaves).
Coriander as companion plant is good because they attract beneficial insects (which destroy bad bugs).
Some claim that coriander is easy to grow. I have yet to experience that! 🙁
Coriander Growing Guide
Sow
- easy to grow from seeds
- either start seeds indoors in individual container or outside, directly into the ground. 1cm deep, 5cm apart. (Note: older seedlings are hard to transplant.)
- Can be reseeded every few weeks
- Victoria: best planted mid-late Autumn, and early Spring.
- Hot weather will cause it to bolt and run to seed. (usu. late spring)
- full sun to partial afternoon shade
- best grown in a clump
Germination
- approx 14-24 days
Harvest
- cut leaves as needed. Do not cut the center of plant.
- for seeds: let it flower. Once flowers are finished, cut and bundle stems in paper bags to dry. Or cover flower heads with paper bags. Then harvest the seeds at the end of the growing season.
Soil
- average, well drained (if in pots, use terra cotta or one with plenty of drainage holes)
Position
- full sun to partial shade in afternoons
- if grown in warm weather, it will need to be shaded
Frost Tolerant
- yes to mild frost
Feeding
- not generally needed
Care/Watering
- feeding not required
- thorough watering rather than frequent watering
- indoor: water till it comes out from drainage holes. Water only when soil is dry.
- pinch to get bushier plant
Companions
basil, celery, lavender, mint, potato, spinach, tomato,
Enemies
fennel
Crop Rotation
Carrot & Root Family
Other Notes
- plant coriander in a number of places because they attract beneficial insects which will help with garden pests.
- each plant should last 3-6 months; approx 75cm tall
- can be cut several times and will regrow
- if harvesting for seed, dry seed before using. Dried seeds can be kept for years (air tight container in dark cupboard)
- if planting coriander as companion plants in various places in the garden – choose variety that bolts easily
Our Coriander Progress
Keeping it indoors (for now).
Coriander Growing By Itself
I was bemoaning above how, so far, coriander just does not seem to thrive with us. Then this coriander popped up in our front garden. And now is flourishing quite happily.
Reference:
- Companion Planting with Cilantro (gardeningknowhow.com)
- Coriander (ourherbgarden.com)
- Coriander Growing Guide (growveg.com.au)
- Growing Coriander Successfully (localfoodconnect.org.au)
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