Cilantro, also known as coriander (Coriandrum sativum), is a popular herb with a distinct flavor that is used in a variety of dishes around the world. Knowing how and when to harvest cilantro is crucial for maintaining a healthy plant and maximizing your yield.
I’ll reveal the secret to harvesting cilantro, such as when and how to harvest cilantro without killing the plant, how to harvest cilantro seeds, and more.
When to Harvest Cilantro
Cilantro grows quickly and is ready to be harvested 45 to 70 days after planting. The best time to harvest cilantro leaves is before the plant starts to flower (bolt), as the flavor becomes bitter after bolting. Generally, you’ll want to start harvesting when the plant reaches around 6 to 8 inches in height.
Pro Tip: To keep the plant from bolting too early, consider planting cilantro in cooler temperatures, as it tends to bolt faster in warm weather.
How to Harvest Cilantro Without Killing the Plant
To harvest cilantro without damaging the plant, focus on cutting only the outer leaves. The inner leaves are younger and will continue to grow if left intact.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Use Sharp Scissors or Pruning Shears: Clean cuts prevent damage and reduce the risk of infection. For clean cuts that won’t harm your cilantro plant, invest in a pair of sharp pruning shears.
- Cut Above the Soil Line: Cut the outer stems about 1-2 inches above the soil. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant at any time to encourage regrowth.
- Remove Dead or Yellowing Leaves: Regularly remove damaged or discolored leaves to promote healthy growth.
How to Harvest Cilantro Seeds
Once cilantro flowers and starts to form seeds, it becomes coriander. Harvesting coriander seeds is a straightforward process:
- Wait for the Plant to Bolt: After flowering, the cilantro plant will produce small green seeds. Wait until the seeds turn brown and dry on the plant.
- Cut the Seed Heads: Use pruning shears to cut the seed heads off the plant.
- Dry the Seeds: Place the seed heads in a paper bag and allow them to dry for a week or two.
- Separate the Seeds: Gently rub the seed heads between your fingers to release the seeds.
Once fully dried, store the seeds in an airtight container. You can either plant them for a future cilantro crop or use them as coriander spice in your cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Harvesting Cilantro
Harvesting Too Much at Once:
- Problem: Harvesting too much at once can stress the plant and hinder its growth.
- Solution: Harvest only what you need, and leave some leaves behind to allow the plant to continue growing.
Harvesting the Wrong Part:
- Problem: Harvesting the stems instead of the leaves can reduce the plant’s ability to produce new growth.
- Solution: Harvest only the leaves, cutting them with clean scissors or a sharp knife.
Harvesting When the Plant is Stressed:
- Problem: Harvesting a stressed plant can further weaken it and lead to premature death.
- Solution: Avoid harvesting during hot, dry weather or after a period of drought. Water the plant thoroughly before harvesting.
Harvesting Before the Plant is Mature:
- Problem: Harvesting immature plants can result in smaller, less flavorful leaves.
- Solution: Wait until the plant has developed a good number of leaves before harvesting.
Harvesting After the Plant Has Bolted:
- Problem: Once a cilantro plant bolts, it produces flowers and seeds, and the leaves become tough and less flavorful.
- Solution: Harvest cilantro before it bolts. To prevent bolting, plant cilantro in cooler weather and provide consistent moisture
. Harvesting in the Heat of the Day:
- Problem: Harvesting cilantro in the heat of the day can stress the plant and cause the leaves to wilt.
- Solution: Harvest cilantro in the morning or evening when the temperatures are cooler.
Harvesting with Dirty Tools:
- Problem: Dirty tools can spread diseases to your cilantro plants.
- Solution: Always clean your harvesting tools with soap and water before and after use.
Harvesting Too Close to the Stem:
- Problem: Harvesting too close to the stem can damage the plant and reduce its ability to produce new growth.
- Solution: Leave a small portion of the stem attached to the leaves when harvesting.
Not Storing Properly:
- Problem: Improper storage can cause cilantro to wilt and lose its flavor.
- Solution: Store cilantro in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. To extend its shelf life, you can also wrap it in a damp paper towel.
How to Harvest Cilantro for Regrowth
One of the benefits of cilantro is that it can regrow after harvesting, as long as it is cut correctly. The key is to avoid cutting too much of the plant at once.
Tips for Harvesting for Regrowth:
- Harvest in Stages: Only cut a portion of the plant, leaving some stems and leaves to encourage regrowth.
- Use the Outer Leaves: Harvest outer leaves first, as they are older and leave the younger, inner leaves to continue growing.
- Allow Time for Recovery: Give your plant a week or two to recover between harvests.
Can You Harvest Cilantro After It Flowers?
Once cilantro begins to flower, its leaves become less flavorful, and the plant shifts its energy toward seed production. While you can still harvest cilantro after it flowers, the taste of the leaves will be more bitter.
If you want to keep the leaves usable for a longer period:
- Pinch Off the Flowers: To delay the plant from bolting, pinch off flower buds as soon as they appear. This can extend the harvest period for the leaves.
Alternatively, let the plant go to seed to harvest coriander seeds.
How to Pick Cilantro Leaves from the Stem
Harvesting cilantro leaves is simple, but there is a technique to maximize yield and encourage healthy regrowth. Here’s how to pick cilantro leaves correctly:
- Choose Mature Leaves: Look for leaves that are fully developed but not yet wilting.
- Pinch or Cut the Leaf Stems: Using your fingers or scissors, cut the stems just above the soil line. If you pinch the stem, be careful not to damage the main stem.
- Work From the Outside In: Start with the outermost leaves and work your way inward.
How to Harvest Cilantro That Has Flowered
Once your cilantro has flowered, the plant is focused on producing seeds. While the leaves may be less desirable for cooking, you can still harvest the seeds.
How to Harvest:
- Let the Seeds Mature: Wait until the flowers die back, and the green seeds have turned brown and dry.
- Cut the Seed Heads: Use sharp pruning shears to cut the seed heads from the plant.
- Dry and Store: Place the seed heads in a paper bag to dry, then store the seeds in an airtight container for later use as coriander.
How to Cut Cilantro Plant for Cooking
Cilantro is commonly used fresh in cooking to add flavor to salads, salsas, and various other dishes. To cut cilantro for cooking:
- Harvest the Leaves: Follow the steps mentioned earlier to pick the cilantro leaves.
- Wash the Leaves: Gently rinse the leaves under cold water to remove dirt and debris.
- Chop Finely: Use a sharp knife to finely chop the leaves.
For a professional-grade knife set, consider investing in high-quality kitchen tools to make the process easier.
Will Cilantro Grow Back After Cutting?
Yes, cilantro can regrow after being cut, as long as you follow proper harvesting techniques. Cutting the outer leaves and avoiding cutting too much of the plant encourages regrowth. With proper care, cilantro will continue to produce new leaves for several weeks.
Common Problems When Harvesting Cilantro
1. Bolting (Flowering) Too Early:
Bolting occurs when the cilantro plant produces flowers and seeds too early, often due to hot weather. To prevent this, try growing cilantro in cooler temperatures and providing partial shade.
2. Over-Harvesting:
Avoid cutting too much of the plant at once. Over-harvesting can weaken the plant and reduce future yields.
3. Yellowing Leaves:
Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering or poor soil conditions. Be sure to water cilantro consistently but avoid waterlogging the soil.
Tools & Supplies for Harvesting Cilantro
Here are some must-have tools and supplies for successful cilantro harvesting:
| Tool | Purpose | Call to Action |
|---|---|---|
| Pruning Shears | For clean and precise cuts | [Get it Here] |
| Seed Starter Kit | To plant cilantro seeds indoors | [Get it Here] |
| Herb Drying Rack | To dry coriander seeds | [Get it Here] |
| Kitchen Knife Set | For finely chopping cilantro for cooking | [Get it Here] |
| Organic Cilantro Seeds | Grow high-quality cilantro at home | [Get it Here] |
FAQs
When is cilantro ready to harvest?
Cilantro is typically ready to harvest 45 to 70 days after planting. The plant should be about 6 to 8 inches tall, and the leaves should be full and healthy.
How do I harvest cilantro without killing the plant?
Harvest only the outer leaves and cut them 1-2 inches above the soil line. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant at once to promote regrowth.
Can you harvest cilantro after it flowers?
Yes, but the leaves will be more bitter. You can also allow the plant to go to seed and harvest coriander seeds instead.
Will cilantro grow back after cutting?
Yes, cilantro can regrow after cutting, as long as you leave enough of the plant intact for regrowth.
Conclusion
Harvesting cilantro can be easy and rewarding when done correctly.
Happy harvesting!
