How to Grow & Germinate Coriander and Cilantro Seeds

Coriander seeds are the seeds of the cilantro plant, also known as Coriander sativum. The entire plant is edible. Coriander seeds are used as a flavoring ingredient and for their fresh scent. The leaves and stems, known as cilantro, are used as an herb in soups, sauces, salsas and meats. The University of Utah Extension recommends planting in early spring in cold climates for a fall harvest. In warmer climates plant in the fall and harvest the seeds in the spring.

Shovel or trowel
Cilantro seeds
Fertilizer
Paper bag

Instructions

- 1
  Prepare a bed for Coriander sativum in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Apply a 2- to 4-inch layer of organic compost onto the planting bed. Mix into the top 6 inches of soil.
- 2
  Plant cilantro seeds 1/2 inch deep and approximately 2 inches apart for herb production. If you plan to grow the plants for seeds, space them 8 to 10 inches apart.
- 3
  Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate in approximately 3 weeks. Water the young plants twice a week, increasing the time between watering as the plant grows. Established plants need water only during periods of drought.
- 4
  Fertilize with a side dressing of high-nitrogen fertilizer once or twice during the growing season. The University of Utah extension recommends using 1/4 cup of 21-0-0 for every 25 sq. ft. Water immediately after fertilizing.
- 5
  Hand-pull weeds as they appear, or hoe lightly. Apply a layer of organic mulch to minimize weeds.
- 6
  Pick stems and leaves as needed beginning when the plant is approximately 6 inches tall. Take some stems from each plant, rather than harvesting the entire plant. Harvest seed heads when the plant begins to die. Place the seed heads in a paper bag and hang to dry. The seeds release as the plant dries.

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