How to Grow Cilantro in Missouri

Select an area that receives full sunlight or partial shade.

Mix 2 to 4 inches of organic matter such as aged compost or peat moss into the top 6 inches of the soil with a shovel, hoe or tiller. Break up the soil to keep it loose and aerated.

Plant the seeds in soil about 1/2 inch deep and 2 inches apart if you're growing them for their leaves. For coriander seeds, space the seeds at least 8 inches apart. Space the rows 15 inches apart.

Water the seeds but don't soak the soil. Keep the soil moist while the plants are young, but reduce watering once they're fully established. Water the soil when it feels dry at a depth of 1 inch. Cilantro prefers drier soil and minimal humidity.

Apply a 2-inch layer of wood chip mulch around the base of the plant when it emerges to keep the soil cool and moist.

Fertilize the plants twice during the growing season with 1/4 cup of granulated 21-0-0 or 34-0-0 fertilizer per 25 square feet. Spread the fertilizer evenly and water. Don't apply the fertilizer until the plants are a few inches tall and starting to grow their leaves.

Spray the cilantro plants with insecticidal soap thoroughly once a week if you notice leaf hoppers. Stop spraying once they're gone.

Pinch or snip off the cilantro leaves with scissors for use once the plant is about 6 inches tall. To harvest coriander seeds, allow the plant to bolt and begin to turn brown, then cut off the seed heads. This usually takes about 90 days, unless the weather is very hot. Wash the leaves and seeds thoroughly after harvesting.