How to Grow Cilantro Indoors in Water & Soil
How to Grow Cilantro (Coriander) Indoors
Cilantro, also known as coriander in some regions, is a popular herb used in many cuisines worldwide. It’s known for its distinct, refreshing flavor and aroma, making it a favorite in dishes such as salads but also some diners’ biggest antipathy. If you are one of the groups who appreciate the taste of cilantro and even want to grow it on your own, this is the post for you.
Cilantro, in general, is a bit more challenging to grow indoors than other commonly seen herbs such as parsley, with the difficulty mainly in cilantro bolting or flowering. Fortunately, with the right care, you can grow cilantro indoors with high success rates. Let’s see how to grow cilantro indoors.
Can I Grow Cilantro Indoors
Yes, although cilantro is a fickle herb, you can grow cilantro indoors as long as you stick to proper plant care. To grow coriander indoors, a few key conditions are required: a pot with good drainage, well-draining soil, plenty of sunlight (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight or supplemental grow lights), and a moderate growing environment, including the temperature, humidity, etc. Alternatively, you can grow cilantro indoors in water with a hydroponic growing system.
With these factors in hand, you can start growing cilantro indoors whenever you prefer, including winter. We’ve prepared two versions for you, one is growing cilantro indoors in water, and the other is how to grow the herb with soil.
How to Grow Cilantro Indoors in Water
To grow cilantro in water, the best approach is using hydroponic systems. Hydroponics involves using nutrient-rich water to deliver essential minerals directly to the roots, which is highly efficient and can produce healthy, robust cilantro plants indoors. The Spider Farmer Smart G12 Hydroponics Growing System is an excellent choice for this purpose:
- LED Grow Lights: Adjustable, full-spectrum LED grow lights that provide optimal illumination for plant growth.
- Automated Watering System: Ensures consistent moisture and nutrient delivery.
- Compact Design: Fits easily in indoor spaces, making it ideal for home gardening.
- Easy Monitoring: Equipped with sensors and a user-friendly interface for maintaining ideal growing conditions.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Set Up the Spider Farmer Smart G12 Hydroponics System
Follow the instructions by Spider Farmer to assemble the system. Make sure all parts are securely connected. You can also follow the video below to set up this hydro growing system.
- Plant the Cilantro Seeds
Place 1 cilantro seed into each grow pod. Cover the pod with a small plastic lid to maintain humidity and warmth.
- Adjust Lighting
The Spider Farmer Smart G12 comes with built-in LED grow lights above the pods. This mimics the natural sunlight cilantro needs for optimal growth. Set the lights based on 4 timing cycle modes. You can also select the Veg mode for an automated growing experience. Lighting won’t be a problem even if you grow coriander in winter.
- Monitor and Maintain the System
The rest is to wait for the cilantro seeds to germinate. Regularly check the water reservoir to ensure it remains at the proper level. Refill with water and nutrients as needed.
Based on our testing, you can expect a bountiful harvest within 20 days.
- Prune and Harvest
- Pruning (Optional): Once the cilantro plants reach about 4-6 inches in height, start pruning by snipping the outer leaves first. This encourages bushier growth and prolongs the harvest period.
- Harvesting: Harvest cilantro leaves by cutting them close to the base. Start with the outer, older stems, leaving the inner, younger stems to keep developing. Be sure not to harvest more than 30 percent of the plant at once. Waiting at least seven days between significant harvests helps the plant replenish. Rotating the harvest around the plant ensures even growth and prevents premature bolting.
Here’s a 20-day time-lapse video of how we grow cilantro with the G12 hydro system. We highly recommend this method as it really frees your hands while bringing a pleasant result.
How to Grow Cilantro Indoors with Soil
If you prefer the old-fashioned way to grow cilantro indoors with soil, here’s how to manage that:
- Choosing the Right Container
Selecting the appropriate container is crucial for the successful growth of cilantro. Opt for a pot that is at least 8 inches deep to accommodate the plant’s root system. Containers made of terracotta or plastic are ideal, but ensure they have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
- Selecting the Best Soil
Cilantro thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A high-quality potting mix with added compost or well-rotted manure is perfect. Before planting, enrich the soil with a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients.
- Planting Cilantro Seeds
Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and space them approximately 1 inch apart. Cilantro seeds can be planted directly into the container or started in seed trays and transplanted later. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and water gently.
- Optimal Light Conditions
Cilantro requires at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Place your pot in a south-facing window where it can receive ample sunlight. If you plan to grow cilantro in winter, grow lights for indoor plants are must-have items.
- Watering Cilantro Plants
Consistent moisture is essential for cilantro but avoid overwatering. Water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure the container drains well to prevent standing water, which can cause root rot.
- Temperature and Humidity Needs
Cilantro prefers cooler temperatures, ideally between 60-70°F (15-21°C). Avoid placing the plants near heat sources or in direct drafts. Maintaining moderate humidity levels is also beneficial. You can raise humidity by placing a tray of water near the plants or using a plant humidifier.
- Pruning and Harvesting Cilantro
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from bolting (flowering prematurely). Similar to hydro-grown cilantro, start harvesting when the plants are 4-6 inches tall. Cut the outer leaves first, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing.
Final Thoughts
That’s it – how to grow cilantro indoors from seeds. Whether in water or soil, growing cilantro indoors is entirely feasible with the right care and conditions. This herb can thrive indoors if provided with ample light, proper temperature, and adequate watering. Using a hydroponic system like the Spider Farmer Smart G12 Hydroponic System can simplify the process, offering automated care and optimal growing conditions. Alternatively, growing cilantro in soil is also effective, requiring attention to drainage, light, and regular pruning.
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