Can Cilantro Be Started From Cuttings

Cilantro can be started from cuttings, but it’s not the most reliable way to grow this popular herb.
 
While cilantro is typically grown from seeds, stem cuttings can root under the right conditions.
 
However, the success rate is often lower compared to seed starting, especially because cilantro has a hollow stem and a fast life cycle.
 
If you’ve ever wondered “can cilantro be started from cuttings,” you’re not alone.
 
Many gardeners want to skip the seed stage and get a head start, particularly when they have a bunch of fresh cilantro in the fridge that’s starting to sprout roots.
 
In this post, we’ll explore whether cilantro can be started from cuttings, how to do it properly, and what to expect along the way.
 
Let’s dig in.
 

Can Cilantro Be Started From Cuttings? Yes, But With Caveats

Cilantro can be started from cuttings, but it’s not as straightforward as rooting a mint or basil stem.
 
The key is to take cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems and root them in water or a soilless mix.
 
Unlike many herbs that root easily, cilantro is a bit finicky because it’s an annual with a short lifespan.
 
Still, with patience and the right technique, you can get cilantro cuttings to grow into new plants.
 
Here’s why it works and what to watch out for.
 

1. Cilantro Cuttings Can Develop Roots

Cilantro stems contain nodes where leaves attach, and these nodes have the potential to produce new roots.
 
When you place a cutting in water or moist soil, the plant hormones at the node can trigger root formation.
 
This is the same principle behind rooting other herb cuttings, though cilantro is slower to respond.
 
So yes, cilantro can be started from cuttings, but you’ll need to be patient.
 

2. Softwood Cuttings Work Best

The best cuttings for starting cilantro are softwood cuttings taken from the top growth of a healthy plant.
 
Avoid woody or flowering stems because they’re less likely to root and may already be past their prime.
 
Look for stems that are green, flexible, and about 4 to 6 inches long.
 
Make a clean cut just below a node, remove the lower leaves, and you’re ready to root your cilantro cutting.
 

3. Water Rooting Is Possible but Slower

You can root cilantro cuttings in a glass of water, but it takes longer than many other herbs.
 
Change the water every couple of days to keep it fresh and prevent bacteria growth.
 
Roots may appear in one to two weeks, but sometimes it takes longer.
 
If the stem turns slimy or soft, toss it out and start with a fresh cutting.
 
When roots are about an inch long, you can transplant the cutting into soil.
 

How to Start Cilantro From Cuttings Step by Step

If you want to try starting cilantro from cuttings, follow these steps for the best chance of success.
 

1. Choose a Healthy Mother Plant

Pick a cilantro plant that’s vigorous, pest-free, and not bolting (flowering).
 
Bolting signals the end of the plant’s life cycle, and cuttings from bolting stems rarely root well.
 
Early morning is the best time to take cuttings because the plant is hydrated and cool.
 

2. Take Cuttings Properly

Use clean, sharp scissors or pruners to cut a 4- to 6-inch stem just below a leaf node.
 
Strip off the lower leaves so only a few leaves remain at the top.
 
This reduces moisture loss and directs energy toward root production.
 

3. Root in Water or Soil

Place the cutting in a jar of water or directly into a moist, well-draining potting mix.
 
If using soil, dip the cut end in rooting hormone first to improve your chances.
 
Keep the cutting in bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture.
 

4. Wait for Roots to Form

Roots typically develop in one to three weeks, depending on conditions.
 
Don’t tug on the cutting to check for roots; instead, watch for new leaf growth as a sign of success.
 
Once roots are established, you can care for your new cilantro plant as you would any other.
 

5. Transplant Carefully

When roots are at least an inch long, transplant your cilantro cutting into a larger pot or garden bed.
 
Harden it off gradually if it’s been indoors, and keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
 
With luck, your cilantro cutting will grow into a productive plant, though it may bolt faster than seed-grown plants.
 

Challenges of Starting Cilantro From Cuttings

Starting cilantro from cuttings isn’t always a walk in the park.
 
One major challenge is that cilantro is a cool-season annual that bolts quickly in warm weather.
 
Cuttings taken from older plants may already be programmed to flower, meaning your new plant could bolt soon after rooting.
 
Additionally, cilantro stems are hollow and prone to rot if kept too wet during rooting.
 
That’s why many gardeners still prefer to grow cilantro from seeds, which is faster and more dependable.
 
But if you’re up for a fun experiment, starting cilantro from cuttings can be a rewarding project.
 

So, Can Cilantro Be Started From Cuttings?

Cilantro can be started from cuttings, but it’s not the easiest or most reliable method.
 
You’ll have better luck with softwood cuttings from healthy, non-flowering plants, and you’ll need to be patient while roots form.
 
Water rooting works, but soil rooting with rooting hormone often gives better results.
 
Just remember that cilantro grown from cuttings may bolt faster than seed-grown plants, so keep that in mind if you’re aiming for a long harvest.
 
If you want to try starting cilantro from cuttings, go for it—just don’t toss out your seed packets just yet.
 
Happy gardening!