Cilantro Germination Days

General Time Frame

• Sow cilantro seeds in the garden from early spring to early summer and again in early fall. The seeds germinate in seven to 10 days. Plant the seeds 1/2 inch deep and space them 1 inch apart. Thin to 6 inches apart when the plants stand 3 inches high. Cilantro has a long tap-root and doesn't transplant well. Sow it directly in the garden or in pots.

Weather and Temperature

• Cilantro germinates best in cool, moist conditions and temperatures between 55 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. When temperatures rise above this threshold, the seeds may be slow to germinate or fail to germinate. In very wet soils, the seeds may rot; in dry conditions, they may fail to swell and germinate. Moisten the soil before planting seeds and keep it evenly moist, but not soggy.

Soil

• Cilantro grows best in loamy garden soil. If planted in heavy, wet clay soil, the seeds may rot. Sandy soils often become too warm and dry for cilantro. For fastest germination, amend soils with compost and manure. These amendments lighten heavy soils and conserve moisture in sandy soils.

Considerations

• Cilantro is quick to bolt, or produce flowers and seeds, in hot weather. Once the plants bolt, the leaves become bitter and inedible. Make multiple plantings of cilantro to extend the growing season. Cilantro can withstand freezing temperatures and makes an ideal spring and fall crop.