What To Know
- In colder climates or during winter months, grow coriander indoors in pots placed on a sunny windowsill or under grow lights.
- To extend the shelf life of your fresh coriander, store it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.
- With a little planning and care, you can enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavor of this versatile herb in your dishes throughout the year.
Coriander, with its bright, fresh flavor, is a staple in kitchens worldwide. But what if you could enjoy this versatile herb not just seasonally, but all year round? This guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to cultivate a continuous harvest of coriander, no matter the weather.
Understanding Coriander’s Growth Habits
Coriander, also known as cilantro, is a cool-season annual. This means it thrives in cooler temperatures and completes its life cycle within a single growing season. However, with strategic planning and a bit of know-how, you can extend its harvest period significantly.
Choosing the Right Location and Soil
Coriander prefers a sunny spot with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. It also thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Before planting, amend the soil with compost or aged manure to improve its structure and nutrient content.
Sowing the Seeds
- Direct Sowing: In mild climates, direct sowing coriander seeds into the garden is the most common method. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart, in rows spaced 12 inches apart.
- Starting Indoors: For early harvests or in colder regions, start coriander seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Use seed trays or small pots filled with seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm, and transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost.
Watering and Fertilizing
Coriander needs consistent moisture, especially during its early growth stages. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
To support healthy growth, fertilize coriander plants every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Harvesting Your Coriander
Harvest coriander leaves when they are young and tender, as they become bitter with age. Pinch off the leaves from the top of the plant, leaving the central stem intact to encourage further growth. You can harvest leaves continuously throughout the growing season.
Extending Your Coriander Harvest
- Successive Planting: To maintain a continuous supply of coriander, sow new seeds every 2-3 weeks. This will ensure a staggered harvest, with fresh leaves available throughout the year.
- Indoor Growing: In colder climates or during winter months, grow coriander indoors in pots placed on a sunny windowsill or under grow lights.
- Cool-Season Varieties: Opt for cool-season coriander varieties that are more tolerant of cooler temperatures, such as “Long Standing” or “Santo.”
Dealing with Pests and Diseases
Coriander is generally pest-resistant, but aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can occasionally be a problem. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
Fungal diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot can also affect coriander. Avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation to prevent these issues.
The Final Harvest: Coriander Seeds
Once your coriander plants begin to flower, you can harvest their seeds for use in cooking and other applications. The seeds are the source of the familiar “coriander” flavor.
To harvest the seeds, wait until the flower heads turn brown and dry. Cut off the heads and hang them upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area for a few weeks. Once the seeds are fully dried, rub them between your hands to remove them from the seed heads.
Beyond the Harvest: Preserving Freshness
To extend the shelf life of your fresh coriander, store it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. You can also preserve coriander by freezing it. Wash and dry the leaves thoroughly, then pack them into freezer-safe bags or containers.
A Year-Round Feast of Flavor
Growing coriander all year round is a rewarding endeavor. With a little planning and care, you can enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavor of this versatile herb in your dishes throughout the year.
Questions You May Have
Q: Why are my coriander leaves bitter?
A: Bitter coriander leaves are often a sign of the plant bolting, which occurs when it begins to flower. Harvesting the leaves before they become too mature can help prevent bitterness.
Q: Can I grow coriander in pots?
A: Yes, you can grow coriander in pots. Choose a pot at least 12 inches in diameter and fill it with well-draining potting mix.
Q: How long does it take for coriander to grow?
A: Coriander typically takes 4-6 weeks to mature from seed to harvest.
Q: How do I know when my coriander seeds are ready to harvest?
A: Coriander seeds are ready to harvest when the flower heads turn brown and dry. The seeds will easily detach from the seed head when rubbed between your fingers.
Q: What are some common uses for coriander?
A: Coriander leaves are commonly used in salsas, guacamole, curries, and Asian dishes. Coriander seeds are used in spice blends, chutneys, and pickling.
