Cilantro, or coriander as some call it, is the star of every kitchen. If you’re searching for how to grow coriander, cilantro indoors, you’re looking for a simple way to bring this fresh herb to your home, and I’m here to share just that. Growing cilantro outdoors in summer has always been a bit tricky for me, but in winter? Oh, it thrives indoors like magic! Growing cilantro in pots indoors is so easy that once you try it, you’ll want to do it again and again. This guide is written with so much heart and simplicity that it’ll feel like I’m sitting with you, chatting over a cup of chai. So, let’s get started!
Seeds: How to Grow Cilantro from Seeds Indoors
Everything begins with seeds. One of the top cilantro growing tips is picking good ones. Most cilantro troubles start with germination, but a simple viability test can ensure your seeds are ready to shine.
Related: How to Grow Tomatoes in Pots at Home
How to do it?
- Take 20-30 cilantro seeds.
- Wrap them in a damp paper towel.
- Place the towel in a plastic bag (no need to seal it tight, just keep the towel moist).
- Keep it in a slightly warm spot for a week.
- After a week, count how many seeds sprouted. Divide the sprouted seeds by the total, then multiply by 100. If 80% or more sprouted, your seeds are golden!
With proper coriander seed germination, your cilantro will grow beautifully. Now, let’s talk about soil and pots.
Soil and Pots: Best Soil for Cilantro
Cilantro loves light, airy, nutrient-rich soil. When choosing the best pots for growing cilantro indoors, make sure the soil has neutral pH and great drainage. Soggy soil is a big no-no for cilantro roots.
What kind of pot?
- For growing cilantro on a windowsill, pick a pot at least 5 inches deep since cilantro roots don’t dig too deep.
- You can buy a pot or make one yourself. I once crafted a 6x6x8-inch wooden box—so simple anyone could do it! If you’re excited about growing herbs at home in containers, check out how to grow garlic indoors in home containers for another easy kitchen crop.
How to prep the soil?
- For organic cilantro growing, grab a potting mix made for potted plants.
- DIY lovers can mix 50% compost with 50% coconut coir.
- If your compost is weak, add a pinch of slow-release organic fertilizer (like alfalfa meal) for the best way to grow coriander at home. Cilantro doesn’t need much, though.
Growing Cilantro in Pots Indoors: The Easiest Way
Want to know how to care for cilantro indoors? Try this foolproof method. There are tons of ways to plant cilantro, but I’m sharing the simplest one that guarantees a lush crop.
- Fill the pot: Load your pot with the light soil mix. Press it down gently so the soil settles about an inch lower. If you’re hooked on growing cilantro in pots indoors, you’ll love trying how to grow pepper plants in pots indoors to spice up your indoor garden!
- Scatter the seeds: Sprinkle seeds on top, keeping half an inch between them. Some say to split cilantro seeds, but cilantro growing tips suggest it’s a waste of effort.
- Cover with soil: Add a half-inch layer of the same soil mix over the seeds.
- Water carefully: Watering cilantro indoors needs a gentle touch. Pouring water directly can scatter seeds. Here’s a trick:
- Cut a paper towel to fit the top of your pot.
- Place it over the soil and slowly pour water on it.
- The towel wicks water to the soil, keeping it moist without disturbing seeds. You’ll likely only need to water once or twice.
Cilantro Plant Care: Germination and Care
For tips for growing coriander in winter, warmth is key. Cilantro seeds need 80-85°F (27-29°C) to sprout. Place the pot on a low-wattage heating pad. In about a week, you’ll see sprouts. A few days later, the tiny plants will push the paper towel up—time to remove it!
Key tips:
- No need to thin cilantro, even if it’s dense.
If you’re loving indoor herb gardening, you might also enjoy learning how to grow onions at home without seeds to keep your kitchen stocked with fresh produce!
- For how to care for cilantro indoors, keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Spray the leaves lightly if your home’s air is dry.
- To tackle preventing cilantro bolting, keep the pot away from harsh afternoon sun.
How to Prevent Cilantro from Bolting Indoors: Harvesting
Cilantro’s first true leaves appear a week after sprouting. For how to grow organic cilantro indoors, harvesting right is crucial:
- Snip the outer, older leaves and leave the new center ones. This keeps the plant growing.
- One plant can give you harvests for months. Mine stayed green even after seven cuts!
Stopping bolting
- If you spot flower stalks, snip them immediately.
- For how to grow cilantro indoors for beginners, sow new seeds every few weeks (succession sowing).
- In summer, move the pot to a cool, shady spot.
Indoor Herb Gardening: Pest Control
Even in methods like how to grow cilantro indoors without soil, pests can sneak in. Indoors, watch for spider mites and aphids. Use organic pesticides, but since cilantro is cheap and grows fast, it’s often easier to start fresh if pests take over.
Coriander Seed Germination: Bonus Seeds
When cilantro bolts, it makes seeds—aka coriander. Don’t toss them! They’re useful:
Use as a spice. Fresh coriander has a floral, fragrant taste.
Save them for your next crop. I grew this year’s cilantro from last year’s seeds, and it was amazing!
Tips for Growing Coriander in Winter: Winter Magic
In growing herbs at home, winter cilantro is pure magic. It grows fast, and fresh cilantro in the middle of winter feels like a gardening victory. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned gardener, you’ll love this.
Final tip:
- Choose ‘Calypso’ or ‘Slow Bolt’ varieties—they bolt later.
- For growing cilantro on a windowsill, place it near a window with morning sun but no midday heat.
FAQ: How to Grow Cilantro Indoors Without Soil and More
Can I grow cilantro without soil?
Yes, hydroponics works, but soil is easier for beginners. If you’re curious about growing more food at home, explore how to increase potato yield at home for another rewarding gardening project!
How to grow cilantro in winter?
Follow tips for growing coriander in winter: keep the pot in a warm, sunny spot and the soil moist.
How to stop cilantro from bolting?
For preventing cilantro bolting, cut flower stalks and keep it in a cool spot.
Friends, you’re now ready for the best way to grow coriander at home! Indoor herb gardening is so fun and easy, you’ll want to do it again and again. Share your tips, spread this guide to your buddies, and let’s make our homes green and vibrant!