Are you looking for a way to grow your own coriander?
Coriander is a very versatile herb that can be used in many different dishes. It’s also great for adding flavor to drinks like tea and lemonade. Growing it yourself means you always have some on hand, so you don’t need to worry about running out of this tasty ingredient!
You can use the leaves as well as the seeds from your plant, which will save money and allow you to experiment with new recipes at home. The best part is that growing coriander isn’t difficult – just follow our simple guide below!
Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)
When is the best time of the year to plant Coriander
Coriander is a plant that can be grown all year long, but the best time to plant it is from late March until early September. With the right conditions, such as soil and weather, coriander can be sown up to four times a year. However, the most common time to plant coriander is in late spring or early summer. Coriander plants grow best in full sun and well-drained soil. They can be grown in containers or in gardens. The temperature range for coriander is between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Coriander seed pods will begin to form about 60 days after planting and can be harvested when they are light brown in color.
Where in the Garden Should You Plant Coriander
Coriander is an annual plant that is part of the Apiaceae family. Coriander seeds should be planted in the early spring in well-drained soil that has been amended with manure or compost. The plant grows best in areas that are sunny, but not hot to the touch. Keep the soil moist and fertilize it throughout the growing season to promote strong growth.
Grow coriander in a well-drained planter filled with garden soil. Plant the seeds directly into the ground about 1 inch deep. Water them immediately after planting to settle the seeds in place.
Place coriander plants in an area that receives six hours of direct sun per day. Coriander requires some warmth to germinate, so wait to plant them until the soil has warmed to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Fertilize coriander plants every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Add compost to the soil once a month to replenish the nutrients used by the plants.
How Often Should I Watering Coriander
Coriander is a yearly plant that grows best when watered often. You should water your coriander every other day. Coriander is not a plant that naturally needs water every day. If you feel the soil to determine if it’s dry, that’s usually a good indicator that your coriander does need watering. You can also check how wet the top of the soil is by inserting your finger into the ground about 2 inches deep. When you do this, if the top 2 inches of soil are wet, then you likely don’t need to water your coriander. If the top 2 inches of soil are dry, then it is time to water your coriander. Make sure to water the plant until the water begins coming out of the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot. You can also discard any excess water that’s remaining in the drainage tray. Watering your coriander too often can lead to root rot, which will kill the plant.
When and How to Harvest Coriander
Coriander can be harvested at different times to get different results. If you want to harvest the leaves, you can do so when the plant is about six inches tall. The leaves will have a strong flavor and aroma. If you want to harvest the seeds, you can wait until the plant is about eight inches tall. The seeds will be brown and will have a sweet taste.
If you want to harvest the roots, wait until the plant is about six weeks old. The roots are small, but they have a strong flavor. If you want to harvest all three at the same time, wait until the plant is twelve weeks old. The leaves will be large and fragrant, the seeds will be brown and ready to harvest, and the roots will be tender.
If you live in an area where it gets very hot during summer, don’t wait too long between harvests. If you harvest too late, the plant will wilt and die in the heat.
Different Ways to Store Coriander
One way to store coriander is to place it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. You can also freeze coriander by placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Another way to store coriander is to dry it out by leaving it in a sunny spot or using a food dehydrator. You can then store the dried coriander in an airtight container.
If you store your fresh coriander in the refrigerator, it will last for about one month.
If you freeze your fresh coriander, it will stay good for up to six months and retain its flavor and color well. Freezing is a great way to store large amounts of coriander so you can thaw only what you need at a time.
If you dry your fresh coriander, it will stay good for up to six months. Drying is a great way to store coriander if you live in a hot climate or do not have access to a refrigerator.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to label your container or bag with a date so you know when to use the coriander.
Other things of interest about Coriander
- Coriander leaves are a popular herb used in Indian, Thai, Mexican, and Middle Eastern cuisine.
- Coriander is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and minerals like potassium.
- Coriander has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Coriander is often used as a natural remedy for digestive issues and skin problems.
- Coriander oil is used in aromatherapy to treat anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions.
- Coriander is a natural insect repellent.
- Coriander can be used as a dye in food and textiles.
- Coriander is the main flavor in Chinese five-spice powder.
- Coriander is the primary ingredient in the Belgian beer style, witbier.
- Coriander has a lemony taste and a slightly spicy aroma.
Conclusion: Now you have a better idea of how to grow Coriander, you can start planting some in your garden today! This versatile herb can be used in many different dishes and drinks, so it’s a great ingredient to have on hand. If you grow your own Coriander, you’ll never need to worry about running out!