Field guide
How to grow cilantro: planting, care, and harvest guide
Cilantro typically reaches first harvest in 21–35 days. This guide covers when to plant by USDA zone, common pests, harvest cues, and companion plants where relevant.
Open plannerWhen to plant cilantro by USDA zone group
- USDA Zones 1–4 — May to June
- USDA Zones 5–6 — April to May
- USDA Zones 7–8 — March to April
- USDA Zones 9–10 — February to March
- USDA Zones 11–13 — October to February
Companion plants
Good companions: beans, Peas, Tomato (Slicing)
Avoid planting with: Florence Fennel
Harvest
When to pick
- Leaves are full and lacy, plant is 4-6 inches tall
- Harvest before the stem elongates and flowers appear
- Once it bolts, let it flower and collect coriander seeds instead
How: Cut stems at the base, taking outer leaves first. Or harvest the whole plant — it doesn't regrow well from a central cut.
Storage: Stand stems in water in the fridge, loosely covered with a bag. Lasts about a week. Freezes well in ice cube trays with water.
Common pests and problems
Aphids
Signs: Clusters on stems and leaves
Control: Water spray, insecticidal soap. Cilantro flowers attract beneficial insects that eat aphids.
Bolting
Signs: Tall center stem, flowers forming, leaves turn feathery
Control: Not a pest — it's triggered by heat and long days. Plant in partial shade in warm weather. Succession plant every 2-3 weeks. Choose slow-bolt varieties like 'Calypso' or 'Santo'.
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