Cilantro is a flavorful herb that can be used in many recipes. Unfortunately, cilantro is a short-lived herb and it can easily bolt—or go to seed—if not cared for properly. Bolting is when the plant grows quickly and begins to produce flowers and seeds. When this happens, the plant’s leaves become bitter and unusable. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent cilantro from bolting and keep it producing fresh leaves.
Purchase Quality Seeds
The first step to preventing cilantro from bolting is to purchase quality seeds. Look for seeds that are fresh and not past their expiration date. Also, consider buying organic or heirloom seeds, as these are less likely to bolt prematurely.
Provide Adequate Water
Cilantro needs a consistent supply of water to stay healthy and prevent bolting. Water the soil around the cilantro plants deeply and evenly, making sure the soil is consistently moist. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause the cilantro to rot.
Keep the Soil Fertile
Fertile soil is key to preventing cilantro from bolting. Add compost or aged manure to the soil to provide essential nutrients. Also, consider adding a slow-release fertilizer to the soil to provide additional nutrients over time.
Choose the Right Location
Cilantro prefers a sunny location with at least 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. It also needs protection from wind and other harsh weather conditions. If you live in a particularly hot climate, consider planting cilantro in a shady spot that gets some morning sun.
Provide Shade
If you live in a hot climate, consider providing shade for your cilantro plants. Shade cloth or a pop-up tent can help protect the plants from the heat and prevent them from bolting.
Prune Regularly
Regularly pruning cilantro can help keep it from bolting. Remove any dead or dying leaves and trim off any flowers or seed heads as soon as they appear. This will help encourage new growth and prevent the plant from going to seed.
Provide Support
Cilantro can grow quite tall and leggy, so it’s important to provide some kind of support for the plants. Stakes, trellises, or cages can help keep the plants upright and prevent them from toppling over.
Harvest Regularly
Make sure to harvest your cilantro regularly. This will help keep the plants from going to seed and encourage new growth. You can harvest the leaves as soon as they reach a usable size, usually about 2 to 3 inches long.
Conclusion
Cilantro is a flavorful and versatile herb, but it can be tricky to keep it from bolting. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent cilantro from going to seed. Start by purchasing quality seeds and providing adequate water, fertile soil, and the right location. Prune regularly, provide shade and support, and harvest regularly to keep the cilantro producing fresh leaves. With the right care, you can enjoy cilantro all season long.
