Popularly used as an addition to various foods across cuisines and as an anti-food poisoning agent - Cilantro has long been a beloved herb. Revered for its medicinal properties and its strong taste, this herb is a popular choice for home and herb gardens.
It is also a relatively easy herb to grow and there are just a few things that you need to keep in mind while growing it.
• How to Grow Cilantro Plant in your Indoor Gardens:
When you are set to grow coriander at home, you must remember its individual growth requirements and needs, so that these can be met and your plant can thrive. Here are some things to remember and implement -
• Choose the Right Planting Space in your Kitchen Garden:
Whether your kitchen garden is indoors or attached to your kitchen outside, you must remember that herb plants require you to pick the right spot for their optimal growth.
Cilantro plants thrive in sunny areas and need at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. So, place your coriander in a sunny spot and allow it to soak in the light and warmth.
• Selecting the Right Pots for your Coriander Plant:
Not just herb plants but any plants need the proper ventilation and space to grow to their fullest. In case of these herbs, like any other plants - choose spacious pots, at least 8-12 inches deep.
These pots must have with proper drainage for growing coriander. Allowing your roots to breathe is also an important aspect of growing plants well. So, choose breathable materials like terracotta to prevent waterlogged soil.
Whether you have an outdoor or indoor herb garden, well-draining pots and spacious pots are a must.
• Planting Your Coriander Seeds:
Plant the coriander seeds in well-draining soil in your indoor kitchen garden or outdoor herb gardens.
Sow the plant seeds about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep and maintain a spacing of 6-8 inches between each seed. This will give your Coriander plant more space to grow and thrive as it gets bigger.
Remember to water consistently to keep the soil moist but also not waterlogged. You can begin germination indoors, then transplant seedlings, or sow directly for a more effortless home gardening experience.
Growing coriander from seeds is a rather rewarding experience as the seed becomes a whole plant which then becomes the food on your table or even the medicinal aid when needed.
• Selecting the Right Soil for Your Coriander Seeds:
Coriander plants thrive in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.2 to 6.8.
You can opt for a nutrient-rich soil mix, making use of natural compost for enhanced fertility. Good drainage prevents waterlogging, while a loose texture supports healthy root development.
Provide these soil conditions for robust coriander growth in your home herb garden or simply in your plant pot outdoors, in case you do not have a kitchen garden.
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• Coriander Plant Care:
➭Watering your Coriander Plant:
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as the roots can be susceptible to rot. Especially during dry periods, remember to water regularly.
➭Providing Adequate Sunlight:
Provide 4-6 hours of sunlight daily, or supplement with artificial light for indoor plants. When you are providing your plant with natural sunlight, remember not to let the heat scorch its leaves.
In summers, protect your plant from extreme heat as it can lead to reduced foliage.
➭Finding the Right Soil:
Use well-draining, slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter. As mentioned before, you can maintain the pH between the range of 6.2 to 6.8.
➭Fertilizing your Coriander Plant:
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. But during the dormant season, you can reduce fertilization and apply it only when needed.
➭Pruning and Trimming:
Harvest regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent flowering, as it can affect flavor. Prune your coriander plant when it reaches 6 inches in height.
Remember to also regularly trim the outer leaves to promote bushier growth. Pruning herb or vegetable plants is important as frequent pruning ensures a continuous harvest.
➭Pest Control for your Herb Plants:
Monitor for pests and if needed, you can make use of organic remedies like neem oil.
If you are looking to start your own garden and are on the lookout for herb garden ideas, Coriander can definitely be on the list of herbs to plant first. Its relatively easy growth and adaptability make it a great first choice for your herb gardens!
Its intense flavor and medicinal properties also make it a great addition to health-conscious gardens. So, when will you be planting your coriander plant?
