Don’t underestimate the power of cilantro in your microgreen garden, especially if you’re a fan of its distinctive flavor. Growing cilantro as microgreens at home can infuse your dishes with a zesty punch and plenty of nutrients, all without burning a hole in your pocket. Unlike most other microgreens, cilantro takes its time to grow, but trust me, it’s worth the wait.
The magic of cilantro microgreens lies in their harvest time. When cilantro first sprouts, it unfurls two grass-like cotyledon leaves that pack a milder flavor compared to mature cilantro. As the first feathery true leaves appear, the microgreens start to reveal the full-bodied taste of their mature counterparts.
Ready to transform cilantro seeds into delicious baby greens? Let’s roll up our sleeves and explore the fascinating world of growing cilantro, the microgreen way.
Understanding Cilantro and Its Uses – Cilantro Sprouts
Origin and History
Cilantro, often referred to as coriander, carries a rich history that extends over 3,000 years. Esteemed as one of the oldest herbs, its earliest documentation dates back to 1550 BCE in the Ebers Papyrus, a renowned Egyptian medical text. Sprouting from the eastern Mediterranean region, cilantro has since spread globally and embossed its unique flavor in diverse cuisines.
Growing Cilantro Microgreens
Germination and Growth
Unlike speedier microgreen varieties, cilantro plays the patience game. It usually takes between 3-6 days to initiate germination and another 14 to 32 days to grow to a size suitable for harvest. But, despite its slow growth, even a novice gardener finds it relatively easy to cultivate.
Seeding
Crafting the ideal environment for cilantro involves a precise balance of factors. Starting with seeding, planting about 7-8 tender cilantro seeds per square inch tends to yield the best results. Due to their fragile nature, handle these seeds with utmost care to prevent unintentional cracking.
Conditions
Another key to successful cilantro growth lies in replicating its favoured conditions. It thrives in sun-bathed, cool climates and well-drained soil with a pH close to 6.5. Besides, it’s worth noting that cilantro shows sensitivity towards heat, often bolting and yielding bitter leaves in response to higher temperatures.
Cooking with Cilantro
From the leaves to the root, the entire cilantro is edible, making it a versatile herb in the kitchen. Its delicate, citrusy flavor finds its way into raw salads and sauces, but introducing it to heat dulls its distinctive taste. For this reason, chefs often add fresh cilantro to dishes post-cooking, akin to parsley. However, when combined with an exotic mix of ginger, garlic, curry, coconut milk and other spices, cooking with fresh cilantro can add an unparalleled aroma and taste to your dishes.
Saving and Using Cilantro Seeds
Dubbed as ‘coriander’ when in seed form, the seeds of the cilantro plant exhibit two interesting stages of edibility – when young and green, and when mature and brown. Apart from being a delightful addition to pickles and Asian inspired dishes, these seeds also allow you to reap a bonus benefit: Saving them year on year, you can cultivate cilantro strains better adapted to your garden conditions! It’s no less than a gift that keeps on giving.
Relation Between Cilantro and Coriander
Exploring the subject deeper, I discover an intriguing fact about Coriandrum sativum. Astonishingly, cilantro and coriander originate from different parts of the same plant, performing diverse culinary and nutritional roles.
Cilantro
Commonly found in green, leafy bundles at the grocery store, cilantro refers to the fresh leaves and tender stems of this plant. A popular ingredient across a range of cuisines including Mexican and Asian, cilantro boasts a fresh, citrusy flavor. Its application in dishes is most beneficial when mixed raw or lightly cooked, as its flavor tends to dissipate under sustained heat.
Coriander – Cilantro Sprouts
Dubbed coriander in the United States, the seeds of this plant carry a warmer, slightly sweet, and citrusy flavor distinct from its leafy counterpart. Whether whole or ground, coriander seeds find widespread usage across numerous recipes as a spice, and differ from cilantro in their flavor profile and usage in cooking.
Growth and Harvest
Among the first edibles to sprout from outdoor gardens in the cool-season, this plant is an annual that exudes vibrancy in cool climates, particularly springs and falls. Thriving in home gardens, it gets harvested for its leaves – known as cilantro – once it reaches adequate height. Notably, its seeds can result in hundreds of new plants, a bounty that gardeners can harvest, save, and plant the following year.
By focusing not just on the leaves but also on the seeds, the versatility and breadth of Coriandrum sativum are highlighted. No matter your preference – the fresh, citrusy flavor of raw cilantro leaves or the warm, exotic spice of coriander seeds – this plant delivers a culinary punch that energizes every dish.
Key Equipment Needed to Grow Cilantro Sprouts
Growing cilantro sprouts at home requires key pieces of equipment. Making thoughtful selections can yield healthier sprouts and a more efficient growing process.
Choosing the Right Seeds
Picking the right seeds sets the foundation for a successful sprouting process. Cilantro seeds are fragile, housing two seeds within a dry fruit – it’s not unusual for double seedlings to sprout from them. Always treat them with care to avoid accidental crushing. Quality plays a significant role as well. It’s advisable to opt for certified organic seeds that have undergone rigorous testing for optimal germination and purity. The one I use has all those in mind and on top is non-GMO. Not only does this ensure healthier growth, but it also enhances the flavor of the sprouts.
Deciding on the Ideal Containers
The choice of container is another crucial factor in sprouting cilantro. Whether it’s a simple planting tray or a specialized sprouting tray, cleanliness and good drainage prevent waterlogged soil and the associated growth problems. A shaker bottle, although not a container, is a useful tool in this context. It aids in spreading the seeds evenly, promoting uniform growth.
Selecting a Suitable Growing Medium – Cilantro Sprouts
Soil, the life anchor, definitely deserves careful consideration. Your cilantro microgreens goal is a well-drained soil with a near-neutral pH of around 6.5. This is a common preference among herbs and vegetables. Choices range from quality potting mixes to soils specifically formulated for microgreens. An emerging alternative is soilless options like coconut coir or vermiculite; however, cilantro seeds fare better in soil-based growing media.
The Importance of Grow Lights
Lighting completes the cilantro sprouting setup. Grow lights are recommended for improving microgreen growth, particularly when there’s insufficient natural light. These fixtures are timeable—beneficial for consistent 12-hour illumination. Placement of the lights is critical to cast an even coverage over the entire tray. If you can’t obtain grow lights, a sunny windowsill can serve as a makeshift option. Rotating the tray frequently ensures even exposure to sunlight.
Detailed Process of Growing Cilantro Sprouts
Embarking on a fulfilling journey to grow cilantro at home can start with a few simple steps. First, prepare the seeds, then follow through with precise planting techniques, monitor growth, and ensure optimal conditions. Let’s dive into each part of this process.
Initial Soaking of Seeds
Before planting cilantro seeds, it’s beneficial to soak them. Soak the seeds for 12-24 hours in a bowl of clean water, or crush them gently using a rolling pin or cutting board. Both strategies can quicken the germination of cilantro seeds.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
- Prepare the Growing Medium:
A fine-grained soil mix, coconut coir, or vermiculite can serve as an excellent growing medium. Remember, a soil-based medium is best because cilantro seeds struggle to thrive in fully hydroponic systems. - Fill the Tray:
Ensure you evenly spread the prepared growing medium in the tray, leaving about a 1/4 inch at the top. - Sow the Seeds:
Sprinkle the seeds across the surface of the tray. Distribute the seeds as evenly as possible to simplify the harvesting process later.
Covering and Protecting Your Sprouts – Cilantro Sprouts
After sowing the seeds, it’s crucial to shield them and maintain an environment that promotes growth. During the initial days, check regularly and water the seeds as needed. As they germinate and begin to push up the tray cover, it’s time to switch on the grow light. If the sprouts appear white, don’t fret— they’ll turn green rapidly once exposed to the light.
Keep the top layer of the soil as dry as possible to prevent mold, a common issue in these conditions. Thus, bottom watering is preferable; it keeps the sprouts dry and mold-free.
Growth Stage and Ideal Conditions
A new layer of compost infuses necessary nutrients and encourages healthy growth. To facilitate germination, ensure the soil remains moist as you wait for results. Typically, cilantro seeds sprout within 10-15 days.
Over a 3-4 week period, sow more seeds if temperatures allow. Doing so ensures a consistent supply of fresh cilantro. As you cultivate cilantro, feel the tray’s weight—that’ll help you determine when to water the growing medium next.
After all, cultivating cilantro sprouts isn’t just about a bountiful harvest—it’s also about enjoying the process of nurturing life. So, take your time and see the magic unfold as tiny seeds turn into flavorful herbs.
Cilantro in Pots vs Ground – Pros and Cons
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, choosing to grow cilantro in pots or the ground can depend on several factors. Each method has its own merits and considerations; let’s explore them further.
Pros of Growing Cilantro in Pots
Controlled Environment
With pots, there’s superior control over soil quality, moisture, and temperature. It’s a considerable advantage for cilantro, a plant that thrives in a well-drained soil and cool temperature environment.
Flexibility
Pots provide a flexible option – altering locations to optimize sunlight and temperature is a breeze. For instance, during hot afternoons, moving a pot to a shaded area helps prevent a case known as bolting in cilantro growth.
Protection Against Pests and Diseases
Pots can easily ward off pests and diseases. They’re not directly in contact with the ground, a common origins point for these issues.
Year-Round Cultivation
The ability to move pots indoors during cold or extreme weather conditions allows for year-round cilantro cultivation.
Pros of Growing Cilantro Directly in the Ground – Cilantro Sprouts
In the ground, cilantro plants experience more room to sprout and grow. They don’t require deep roots to flourish, making them ideal for your garden patch.
Seed Collection
Allowing cilantro plants to bolt and produce seeds is another perk in ground-growing. A single plant can yield a large number of seeds, enough for spice collection and subsequent plantings.
Natural Support
As cilantro changes from a leafy green plant to a lanky seed producer, the plant tends to sprawl. In the ground, natural supports like neighboring plants can help manage this growth phase.
However, remember no method is inherently superior. The choice between growing cilantro in pots or in the ground depends largely on your personal gardening preferences and available space.
Caring for Your Cilantro Sprouts
Optimal care increases the chances of successful plant growth. Let’s delve into the nuances of soil and planting, watering, and light and temperature to ensure optimal results.
Soil and Planting
Cilantro thrives best in well-draining soil, with a pH preference between 6.2 and 6.8. It’s actually not necessary to water the seeds prior to germination; this prevents the medium from becoming overly moist and ultimately creating an unsuitable environment for your sprouts. As such, using coconut coir as the preferred medium can be beneficial; it requires less frequent watering compared to other soil types. When it comes to planting, you’ll want to position your seeds about ¼ inch deep. Alternatively, they can simply be scattered on the surface of your soil. For those growing microgreens, you’ll need approximately 2-3 teaspoons of seeds for a 5×5 inch tray.
Watering – Cilantro Sprouts
During the week to ten-day germination period, maintaining consistent soil moisture is key. However, caution must be taken post-germination not to over-water; keeping the soil lightly moist without allowing it to become soggy is the goal here. Remember, if you’re growing microgreens, wait until after the seeds have germinated before watering. Maintain the soil’s moisture by watering lightly as needed.
Light and Temperature
Cilantro enjoys cool temperatures and can tolerate light frost. However, it doesn’t take well to high temperatures (above 75°F or 80°F), tending to ‘bolt’ or prematurely flower and go to seed. For those who live in warmer climates, care must be taken to ensure a cool environment when sprouting.
How and When to Harvest Cilantro – Cilantro Sprouts
Harvesting cilantro can seem overwhelming if you’re new to it, but once you understand the process, it becomes second nature. Here are some guidelines to help you understand when and how to harvest cilantro for the best results.
Harvesting Cilantro Leaves
When cilantro plants reach approximately 6 inches in height, they’re usually ready for harvest. Cut about one-third of the plant at ground level each time you harvest. That’s because it encourages new growth and allows the plant to continually produce.
However, it’s crucial to monitor their growth closely. Harvest the fresh leaves and tender stems before the plant bolts, that is, goes to seed. Bolting changes the flavor profile of the plant, typically resulting in bitter-tasting leaves.
Harvesting Cilantro Microgreens
Cilantro microgreens are typically ready to harvest in 20-32 days from seed. The crucial point to remember is to wait until the first true leaves are well formed. This is not during the cotyledon stage, but a little later. Use a pair of stainless steel scissors or a sharp knife to harvest them just above the surface of the soil.
On a side note, cilantro takes around 45 to 60 days to grow from the time it’s seeded. At this point, the plant should have 5 to 10 main stems. It’s a cut-and-come-again plant, so you can harvest some leaves, leave it for a week, and then return to harvest more. You’ll need a clean pair of pruners or scissors to cut at the base, remembering to include the stem instead of just the leaves for it stimulates more growth.
Remember: don’t harvest more than a third of the cilantro plant at one time. Instead, aim for weekly or bi-weekly harvests to encourage your cilantro plant to keep producing.
Storing Tips for Freshness
One of the challenging aspects of cilantro is how quickly it wilts. To maintain freshness, place the stems in fresh water immediately after harvesting and bring them inside. From there, you can keep them in the refrigerator for a couple of days. However, cilantro doesn’t dry well. So, consider preserving the leaves in oil in the freezer or freezing the whole leaves if you plan on storing them for longer periods.
If you’re dealing with cilantro microgreens, remember these are best eaten immediately upon harvest. But if you must store them, dry them gently between some paper towels first. Then, transfer your crop to a plastic bag or a sealed container, such as glass, which is a favorable storage material. And always, keep them in your refrigerator until it’s mealtime.
Knowing how and when to harvest cilantro as well as how to store it will not only ensure you have fresh herbs on hand but also enhance their flavor profile in your dishes. The sense of achievement from growing and using your own greens is unmatched, particularly when you’re able to use them to your heart’s content over the growing season, savoring every leaf’s distinct flavor in your culinary creations.
Dealing with Cilantro Flowering – Cilantro Sprouts
Transitioning from the cultivation and care of cilantro sprouts, we now venture into managing the life cycle of the plant. Specifically, dealing with the phase of flowering, also termed as bolting, which is a common matter gardeners deal with when growing cilantro. This section will serve as a guide on how to extend the leaf harvest period of your cilantro plant through proper management.
Understanding the Bolting Process
In early summer or when the weather starts to heat up, cilantro plants may begin to bolt, transforming from a leaf producer to a seed producer. It’s crucial not to view this evolutionary stage as the end of your leaf harvests. The flowers, though with a faint cilantro taste, are edible. This phase is a transition, and with some filing, you may extend the leaf harvesting stage a bit longer.
Bolting Prevention
In hot conditions, cilantro bolts quickly. To prevent premature bolting, consider planting your herbs during cooler seasons or providing some shade to control soil temperature. Utilizing organic mulches, such as straw, can assist in keeping the soil cool, extending the plant’s lifespan.
Another effective method of preventing premature bolting is Successional Planting. Sowing seeds every couple of weeks guarantees a steady supply of the herb, allowing you to harvest cilantro leaves before the plant starts to bolt.
Remember, each cilantro plant can produce hundreds of seeds, which means each plant can provide lifetime resources for fresh cilantro. As such, allowing your plants to bolt and produce seeds is not a total loss but can be seen as the start of a new planting cycle.
Finally, do not forget that cilantro is a “cut and come again” herb. It’s not necessary to harvest the whole plant at once. If a few leaves are what you need, simply cut off one or two stems and leave the rest of the plant to thrive and continue growing.
Succession Seeding for Continual Harvest
Let’s talk about succession seeding which is integral for maintaining a continual harvest of cilantro. Starting off with the timing, it’s crucial to begin sowing cilantro seeds when the soil becomes workable in spring. Typically, this happens around 60 days before the last frost date. The advantage here is that cilantro plants get ample time to grow in their preferred cooler temperatures.
And what about warmer climates? Fear not, cilantro can also adapt to these locations, being able to be grown year-round. However, for those in cooler climates, spring and fall are your best planting companions when temperatures dip below 80°F.
Moving on to the frequency of seeding, if a steady supply of fresh leaves is the goal, then sowing cilantro seeds every 1 to 3 weeks is the trick. This strategy tackles the tendency of cilantro to bolt (or go to seed) quickly, especially in warm weather.
Lastly, let’s dissect the best planting method for cilantro. My advice here is to resort to direct seeding in the garden. Given that cilantro plants have a taproot, they aren’t too fond of being transplanted. Seeding directly ensures that the plants grow where they are sown, saving them from the stressful transplanting process. So, whether you’re a home cook looking for a steady supply of fresh herbs or a gardening aficionado wanting to add a new member to your green family, remember, succeeding with cilantro lies in succession seeding.
Before You Go – Cilantro Sprouts
So there you have it – the journey of cilantro from seed to plate. We’ve explored the rich history and nutritional value of this versatile herb, the process of growing cilantro sprouts at home, and the art of managing its life cycle. Isn’t it amazing how a small seed can transform into a flavorful addition to our meals? Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a culinary enthusiast, there’s no denying the satisfaction of nurturing cilantro sprouts, harvesting fresh leaves, and savoring the unique taste they bring to our dishes. And with the right equipment, conditions, and care, you too can enjoy the benefits of this herb year-round. So why wait? Start your cilantro journey today and experience the joy of growing and cooking with fresh cilantro. Don’t forget to add The Herb Prof home page on your favorites so you don’t miss any future articles.
References – Cilantro Sprouts
Little Herb Encyclopedia, by Jack Ritchason; N.D., Woodland Publishing Incorporated, 1995
The Ultimate Healing System, Course Manual, Copyright 1985, Don Lepore
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Lotus Press, 1988
Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, by James A. Duke, Pub. CRP Second Edition 2007
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, Published by Dorling Kindersley
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Frequently Asked Questions – Cilantro Sprouts
What are the benefits of growing cilantro as microgreens?
Growing cilantro as microgreens allows you to enjoy its unique flavor and nutrition profile at home. The plant is rich in vitamins A, C, K, and several antioxidants, and its leaves add a refreshing, citrusy taste to many dishes.
How long does it take for cilantro microgreens to grow?
Cilantro takes about 3-6 days to germinate and typically reaches harvest size in 14 to 32 days. Remember, the initial cotyledon leaves have a milder flavor while the true leaves have a richer taste.
Can you use cilantro seeds in cooking?
Yes, cilantro seeds, also known as coriander, are edible. They have a slightly sweet, warm flavor and are commonly used as a spice in various cuisines. You can also save these seeds for future cultivation.
What equipment do I need to grow cilantro microgreens at home?
You’ll need quality seeds, clean containers with good drainage, appropriate growing medium with a neutral pH, and optional grow lights for low-light conditions.
How can I successfully grow cilantro sprouts at home?
Cilantro sprouts require a moist environment and steady moisture. You need to soak the seeds before planting, provide proper light, maintain a near-neutral pH, and use bottom watering to prevent mold.
Is it better to grow cilantro in pots or in the ground?
The choice depends on your personal gardening preferences and available space. Pot cultivation offers better control over soil quality and protection against pests. On the other hand, growing cilantro in the ground allows better space utilization and seed collection from bolting plants.
How do you care for cilantro sprouts?
Cilantro sprouts thrive in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.2-6.8. They need consistent moisture, prefer cooler temperatures, and are sensitive to heat which can cause them to bolt.
When is the right time to harvest cilantro?
Cilantro plants are usually ready for harvest when they reach about 6″ in height. For microgreens, harvest them when the first true leaves are formed by cutting just above the soil.
How can I extend the leaf harvest of cilantro?
Strategies for extending leaf harvest include planting during cooler seasons, providing shade, using organic mulches to keep the soil cool, and succession planting.
What is succession seeding in cilantro cultivation?
Succession seeding involves sowing cilantro seeds every 1-3 weeks for a continual supply of fresh leaves. Begin sowing when the soil is workable in spring, about 60 days before the last frost date.