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How to Grow Cilantro in a Terrarium

Cilantro is an annual herb with flavorful, edible seeds, known as coriander, and pungent, fragrant leaves that are commonly used in salsas and other spicy foods. It's an herb that is well-suited to terrarium conditions, as cilantro enjoys a lot of sun and moisture. This fast-growing member of the parsley family often will self-sow if you let it go to seed in your terrarium. The leaves are best and tastiest when young, before the plant bolts, or goes to seed.

Things You'll Need

  • Pea gravel or small pebbles
  • Potting soil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a terrarium container that is at least 10 inches tall to allow your cilantro taproot space to dive and provide its leaves upward growth space. Select tall jars, deep fish bowls or other dramatic or unusual glass containers.

    • 2

      Spread a layer of pea gravel or garden pebbles at least an inch deep in the bottom of your terrarium. This promotes drainage and provides a visual way for you to monitor your cilantro's water needs.

    • 3

      Cover the pebbles with at least 8 inches of potting soil. Cilantro's long taproot needs space to grow.

    • 4

      Plant cilantro seeds in moist planting holes about ½ inch deep. If transplanting seedlings, tap the pot bottom until the plant comes free. Create a planting hole in your terrarium that is at least as wide and deep as the root ball. Transplant cilantro without disturbing the roots.

    • 5

      Water your seeds or transplants well. Leave the soil moist but not sodden.

    • 6

      Place your cilantro terrarium in a sunny window. Cilantro enjoys at least six hours of daily sunlight.