How To Grow Mexican Cilantro

Growing Mexican cilantro is one of the easiest and most rewarding herbs you can add to your garden.
 
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, learning how to grow Mexican cilantro will give you a steady supply of fresh, zesty leaves for salsas, tacos, and soups.
 
Mexican cilantro is actually the same plant as regular cilantro (Coriandrum sativum), but it’s often called Mexican cilantro because of its heavy use in Mexican cuisine.
 
The good news is that growing Mexican cilantro doesn’t require a green thumb, just a few simple steps and a little patience.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about how to grow Mexican cilantro, from planting to harvesting.
 
Let’s dig in.
 

How to Grow Mexican Cilantro: The Basics

Growing Mexican cilantro starts with understanding what this plant loves.
 
It’s a cool-season herb that thrives in temperatures between 50°F and 85°F.
 
When it gets too hot, Mexican cilantro bolts quickly, meaning it shoots up a flower stalk and the leaves turn bitter.
 
That’s why timing your planting is key if you want to grow Mexican cilantro successfully.
 
You can grow Mexican cilantro from seeds or transplants, but seeds are the most common and affordable way.
 
Here’s how to get started.
 

1. Choose the Right Spot

Mexican cilantro needs at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight each day.
 
In hotter climates, a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal for growing Mexican cilantro.
 
The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter.
 
If your soil is heavy clay, mix in some compost to loosen it up.
 
Good drainage matters because Mexican cilantro doesn’t like soggy roots.
 

2. Plant at the Right Time

The best time to plant Mexican cilantro is in early spring or early fall.
 
In mild climates, you can sow seeds directly in the ground about 2 to 3 weeks before the last frost.
 
If you live in a hot region, wait until fall when temperatures cool down.
 
For a continuous supply, sow new seeds every 2 to 3 weeks.
 
This staggered planting keeps your Mexican cilantro harvest going strong.
 

3. Sow the Seeds Properly

Mexican cilantro seeds are actually the same thing as coriander seeds, so don’t be confused if you see them labeled that way.
 
Before planting, gently crush the round seeds to split them into halves.
 
This helps them germinate faster when you’re growing Mexican cilantro.
 
Plant seeds about ¼ inch deep and 6 to 8 inches apart.
 
Keep the soil moist but not soaked, and you’ll see sprouts in 7 to 10 days.
 

Caring for Mexican Cilantro as It Grows

Once your Mexican cilantro is up and running, a little care goes a long way.
 
Water your plants regularly, aiming for about 1 inch of water per week.
 
Mexican cilantro has shallow roots, so a light, consistent watering schedule works best.
 
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep the soil cool.
 
This is especially helpful when growing Mexican cilantro in warmer months.
 
Fertilize lightly with a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks.
 
Don’t overdo it though, because too much nitrogen makes Mexican cilantro grow leaves fast but with less flavor.
 
Also, keep an eye out for aphids and whiteflies, which love Mexican cilantro.
 
A simple spray of water or insecticidal soap usually takes care of them.
 

1. Pinch Off Flowers to Delay Bolting

If you notice flower buds forming on your Mexican cilantro, pinch them off right away.
 
This buys you more time before the plant bolts completely.
 
It’s a simple trick that helps you grow Mexican cilantro for a longer season.
 
Once the flowers open fully, the leaves lose their flavor, so act fast.
 

2. Harvest Leaves Regularly

Start harvesting Mexican cilantro when the plant is about 6 inches tall.
 
Snip the outer leaves first, leaving the inner ones to keep growing.
 
Regular harvesting actually encourages more growth, so don’t be shy.
 
Always use clean, sharp scissors to avoid damaging the stems.
 

Common Problems When You Grow Mexican Cilantro

Even with the best care, growing Mexican cilantro comes with a few challenges.
 
The biggest one is bolting, which happens fast in hot weather.
 
To slow it down, choose a slow-bolt variety like ‘Slow Bolt’ or ‘Calypso’.
 
Another issue is root rot, usually caused by poor drainage or overwatering.
 
Let the soil dry slightly between waterings to avoid this problem.
 
If your Mexican cilantro looks leggy, it probably needs more sunlight.
 
And if the leaves turn yellow, that’s often a sign of too much water or a lack of nutrients.
 
Adjust your care routine and your Mexican cilantro will bounce back.
 

1. Growing Mexican Cilantro in Containers

If you don’t have garden space, you can still grow Mexican cilantro in pots.
 
Use a container that’s at least 10 inches deep with drainage holes.
 
Fill it with a quality potting mix and plant your seeds the same way.
 
Container-grown Mexican cilantro dries out faster, so check the soil daily.
 
Move the pot to a shaded spot during the hottest part of the day.
 
This keeps your Mexican cilantro happy and productive all season.
 

2. Saving Seeds for Next Season

If your Mexican cilantro does bolt, don’t toss it.
 
Let the flowers turn into seeds, which are coriander.
 
Once the seeds turn brown and dry, collect them in a paper bag.
 
Store them in a cool, dark place, and you’ll have free seeds to grow Mexican cilantro again next year.
 

So, How to Grow Mexican Cilantro?

Growing Mexican cilantro is simple when you give it the right conditions.
 
Plant it in cool weather, keep the soil moist, and harvest often.
 
Watch out for bolting, and pinch off flowers to extend your harvest.
 
Whether in the ground or in a pot, Mexican cilantro rewards you with fresh, flavorful leaves.
 
Now that you know how to grow Mexican cilantro, you can enjoy homegrown goodness in every meal.
 
Happy gardening.