When To Plant Cilantro In Louisiana

The best time to plant cilantro in Louisiana is from late September through early November for a fall harvest, or from late February through early April for a spring crop.

 

Cilantro is a cool-season herb, and Louisiana’s hot, humid summers make it tough to grow during the hottest months.

 

So if you’ve been wondering when to plant cilantro in Louisiana, the answer really depends on working around the heat.

 

In this post, we’ll cover the best time to plant cilantro in Louisiana, why timing matters so much here, and a few tips to keep your cilantro thriving.

 

Let’s get into it.

 

When to Plant Cilantro in Louisiana

Knowing when to plant cilantro in Louisiana comes down to one big factor: avoiding the intense summer heat.

 

Cilantro grows best when temperatures stay between 50°F and 85°F.

 

Once the mercury climbs above 85°F, cilantro bolts quickly, sending up a flower stalk and turning its leaves bitter.

 

That’s why Louisiana gardeners treat cilantro as a cool-season crop rather than a summer one.

 

1. Fall Planting: Late September to Early November

Fall is arguably the best time to plant cilantro in Louisiana.

 

By late September, the brutal summer heat has started to fade, and the milder days of October and November are perfect for cilantro.

 

Plant your cilantro seeds in late September or early October, and you’ll be harvesting fresh leaves by November.

 

In fact, cilantro planted in the fall often thrives through the mild Louisiana winter, especially in the southern parts of the state.

 

2. Spring Planting: Late February to Early April

If you want a spring crop, plant cilantro in Louisiana from late February through early April.

 

This window gives your cilantro enough cool weather to grow before the summer heat sets in.

 

Just keep in mind that spring cilantro tends to have a shorter harvest window because the heat arrives fast in Louisiana.

 

So plant as early as you safely can once the danger of a hard freeze has passed.

 

3. Why Summer Planting Usually Fails

Trying to plant cilantro in Louisiana during summer is an uphill battle.

 

The combination of high heat and humidity causes cilantro to bolt almost immediately.

 

Once cilantro bolts, the leaves lose their flavor, and the plant stops producing the tender foliage you actually want.

 

Some gardeners plant cilantro in partial shade during summer to slow bolting, but even then, results are hit or miss.

 

Tips for Growing Cilantro in Louisiana

Once you know when to plant cilantro in Louisiana, a few smart habits will help you get the most from your crop.

 

1. Choose the Right Spot

Cilantro likes full sun in cool weather but appreciates afternoon shade as things warm up.

 

In Louisiana, a spot that gets morning sun and some afternoon shade is often ideal.

 

2. Plant in Succession

Because cilantro bolts so fast, planting in succession every two to three weeks keeps you supplied with fresh leaves.

 

This is especially helpful if you plant cilantro in Louisiana during the fall or spring windows.

 

3. Keep the Soil Moist

Cilantro prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil.

 

In Louisiana’s humidity, you won’t need to water as often, but don’t let the soil dry out completely.

 

4. Harvest Often

Frequent harvesting encourages more leaf growth and delays bolting.

 

Snip the outer leaves first, and your cilantro will keep producing for weeks.

 

So, When to Plant Cilantro in Louisiana?

The best time to plant cilantro in Louisiana is in the fall from late September to early November, or in the spring from late February to early April.

 

Cilantro is a cool-season herb, and Louisiana’s hot, humid summers make it tough to grow during the hottest months.

 

Plant cilantro in Louisiana during those cooler windows, and you’ll be rewarded with plenty of fresh, flavorful leaves.