Cilantro, often misunderstood, has been known to have strong effects. Some consider it the holy grail of garnishes while others despise it as the ritual of washing one’s mouth out with soap. Cilantro actually refers to the entire plant: the leaves, stems, and seeds. The leaves and stems are what we typically think of when we imagine cilantro, but the seeds – which are actually dried berries – are also edible and have a completely different flavor. Let’s discuss: how to grow cilantro in pots indoors
When it comes to taste, cilantro is one of those love-it-or-hate-it herbs. Some people find it pleasantly pungent and citric, while others say it tastes like soap or dirt. There isn’t necessarily a scientific explanation for this divide, but some experts believe that it may be due to genetic differences. Whatever your opinion on cilantro, there’s no denying that it has some pretty amazing health benefits.
For centuries, cilantro has been used in traditional medicine to treat everything from indigestion to anxiety. Today, science is beginning to catch up with tradition, and there is some evidence to support the use of cilantro for various ailments. Researchers believe that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of cilantro may help to protect the body against some chronic diseases, including heart disease, arthritis, and cancer.
Containers
Containers come in all shapes, sizes, and materials. When it comes to material, two of the most popular choices are clay and plastic. Both have their pros and cons, but for the purpose of keeping soil wetter, either glazed clay or plastic pots will do the trick. Glazed clay is a type of fired clay that is coated in a glossy finish. This finish helps to seal in moisture, making it ideal for plants that need to stay hydrated.
Plastic pots are also good at retaining water, and they have the added benefit of being lightweight and inexpensive. When choosing a container for your cilantro plant, be sure to pick one that has adequate drainage holes. This will allow excess water to escape, preventing the roots from rotting.
Growing Media
Growing plants and microgreens can be done with potting mix or coconut coir. Potting mix is light and has good moisture retention. Coconut coir is also light and has excellent water retention. Excess moisture rapidly flows out of the potting mix or coconut coir, which is an important consideration when growing plants or microgreens. potting mix is easier to work with than coconut coir because it doesn’t require as much prepping.
Coconut coir needs to be soaked in water for at least 15 minutes before using it as a growing medium. potting mix is also less expensive than coconut coir. If you’re looking for an alternative to potting mix, coconut coir is a good option.
Seeds Or Plants
Seeds are the most common way that cilantro is planted. Seeds can be directly sown into the soil or started indoors and then transplanted outside. Seeds should be planted about ¼ inch deep, and they will germinate in 7-10 days. The plants should be thinned so that they are spaced about 8 inches apart. When the plants are 4-6 inches tall, they can be harvested for their leaves.
Cilantro can also be planted from established plants or by acquiring young plants to cultivate. Established plants can be bought at a nursery, or young plants can be pulled from another person’s garden with their permission. These methods are generally more successful than planting from seed, as the plant will already have a strong root system. When transplanting, it is important to water the plant well and fertilize it regularly. With proper care, cilantro plants can last for several years.
No matter which method you choose, planting cilantro is a simple process that can add flavor to your dishes all summer long.
Planting Instructions
Depending on the technique and the goal, cilantro’s growing instructions might vary somewhat.
Starting Microgreens
- To start, fill the container with potting soil and sow the seeds over the whole surface of the growing medium in the tray. The typical yield from a standard seed tray is approximately 26 ounces per tray.
- Do not cover the seeds with soil and press them by placing a tray on top. A weight, such as a hardcover book, may be used to compress the tops of the plants.
- To sprout, place the containers in a location with an ambient temperature of at least 70°F.
- After the germination process is done, put your seedling on a moistened substrate and keep it there for at least 24 hours. After 24 hours, lightly water the soil with a mister, spray bottle, or fine droplet irrigation hose. You don’t want to drown the tray; otherwise, the seeds will float away.
Cilantro Care
Light
Light is one of the most essential elements in plant development. Plants will grow spindly and weak without enough light, with fewer leaves and flowers. Indoor plants require a significant amount of sunshine to develop and produce.
Cilantro requires at least 6 but, depending on the variety, up to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day if grown outside. If you don’t have access to enough sunshine in your yard, cress may be cultivated in a pot on a sunny windowsill. Simply keep rotating the container so that all sides of the plant get equal exposure to light.
Harvesting
Cilantro harvesting for microgreens and full-sized plants takes place on separate timeframes. Regardless of the technique, harvest with clean hands and scissors. Microgreens are ready to pick after roughly 20 days, while full-grown plants should be harvested when they reach approximately 6 inches in size.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water cilantro?
Cilantro should be watered every few days, or whenever the soil appears dry. Overwatering can cause the leaves to yellow and result in root rot.
What is the best way to store cilantro?
Cilantro can be stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Can I grow cilantro from the grocery store?
Yes, you can grow cilantro from the grocery store. Simply remove the roots and place them in a glass of water. Change the water every few days, and eventually, you will see new growth. When the plant is big enough, transfer it to a pot with moist soil.
Final Thoughts
Cilantro is a flavorful and nutritious herb that may be grown easily indoors in pots. You can eat fresh cilantro all year if you follow the correct planting and maintenance instructions. Thank you for taking the time to read this post. If there are any queries, please feel free to pose them below, and I’ll respond as soon as possible.
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