When To Plant Cilantro Seedlings Outside

Cilantro seedlings can be planted outside once the soil temperature stays above 60°F.
 
That usually happens when nighttime temperatures stay consistently above 50°F.
 
If you plant cilantro seedlings outside too early, the cold can stress them out and cause them to bolt.
 
So timing is everything when you want to plant cilantro seedlings outside successfully.
 
In this post, we’ll go over exactly when to plant cilantro seedlings outside, how to harden them off, and tips to keep them thriving.
 
Let’s dig in.
 

When to Plant Cilantro Seedlings Outside

The best time to plant cilantro seedlings outside is after your last spring frost date.
 
Cilantro is a cool-season herb, which means it actually prefers milder temperatures over scorching summer heat.
 
That’s why you’ll want to plant cilantro seedlings outside in early spring or early fall.
 
If you live in a region with mild winters, you can even plant cilantro seedlings outside in late fall.
 
The key is avoiding both freezing temperatures and intense heat.
 

1. Wait Until Soil Reaches 60°F

Cilantro seeds and seedlings germinate and grow best when soil temperatures are between 60°F and 70°F.
 
If you plant cilantro seedlings outside before the soil warms up enough, their growth will stall.
 
You can use a soil thermometer to check the temperature a few inches below the surface.
 
Once it’s consistently in that 60°F to 70°F range, you’re good to plant cilantro seedlings outside.
 

2. Watch Your Local Frost Dates

Your last frost date is your best guideline for when to plant cilantro seedlings outside.
 
In most zones, that falls somewhere between late March and mid-May.
 
If you plant cilantro seedlings outside before the last frost, you risk losing them to a cold snap.
 
Even a light frost can damage tender young cilantro seedlings.
 
So always check your specific growing zone before you plant cilantro seedlings outside.
 

3. Consider a Fall Planting Too

Many gardeners plant cilantro seedlings outside again in late summer or early fall.
 
That’s because cilantro bolts quickly in the heat of summer.
 
A fall crop lets you plant cilantro seedlings outside when the weather cools back down.
 
Just make sure you give them enough time to establish before the first fall frost.
 

How to Harden Off Cilantro Seedlings Before Planting Outside

Before you plant cilantro seedlings outside, they need to adjust to outdoor conditions.
 
Skipping this step can shock your seedlings and set them back.
 
Here’s how to do it right.
 

1. Start With a Few Hours a Day

About a week before you plan to plant cilantro seedlings outside, start hardening them off.
 
Set them outdoors in a sheltered spot for just two to three hours on the first day.
 
Then gradually increase their time outside each day.
 
By the end of the week, your cilantro seedlings should be ready to stay outside overnight.
 

2. Protect Them From Wind and Direct Sun

Young cilantro seedlings are delicate and can get scorched easily.
 
Place them in partial shade during hardening off so they don’t dry out.
 
Also shield them from strong wind, which can snap their stems.
 
Once they’ve toughened up, you can plant cilantro seedlings outside in their final spot.
 

3. Bring Them in at Night

At the start of hardening off, bring your cilantro seedlings back inside at night.
 
This protects them from unexpected cold snaps.
 
After a week of gradual exposure, you can leave them out overnight.
 
That’s your signal that they’re ready to plant cilantro seedlings outside for good.
 

Best Conditions to Plant Cilantro Seedlings Outside

Getting the timing right is only half the battle.
 
You also need the right conditions to plant cilantro seedlings outside so they thrive.
 

1. Pick a Spot With Morning Sun

Cilantro thrives in full sun to partial shade.
 
In hotter climates, afternoon shade is actually a bonus.
 
A spot with morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal when you plant cilantro seedlings outside.
 
This helps prevent bolting and keeps the leaves tender.
 

2. Use Well-Draining Soil

Cilantro doesn’t like soggy roots.
 
Make sure the soil drains well before you plant cilantro seedlings outside.
 
Loamy, fertile soil with a pH between 6.2 and 6.8 works great.
 
Mixing in some compost before planting gives your cilantro a strong start.
 

3. Space Them Properly

Cilantro needs good airflow to avoid fungal issues.
 
When you plant cilantro seedlings outside, space them about 6 to 8 inches apart.
 
If you’re growing them for seeds, give them even more room.
 
Proper spacing helps your cilantro seedlings grow into healthy, bushy plants.
 

Common Mistakes When Planting Cilantro Seedlings Outside

Even experienced gardeners make mistakes here.
 
Avoid these common pitfalls when you plant cilantro seedlings outside.
 

1. Planting Too Late in Spring

Cilantro hates heat, so waiting too long can cause it to bolt right away.
 
That’s why timing matters so much when you plant cilantro seedlings outside.
 
Get them in the ground as soon as conditions allow.
 

2. Skipping the Hardening Off Process

Going straight from indoors to outdoors will shock your plants.
 
Always harden off your cilantro seedlings before you plant cilantro seedlings outside.
 
It’s a small step that makes a huge difference.
 

3. Overwatering After Transplant

Newly transplanted cilantro seedlings need consistent moisture, not soaked soil.
 
Water deeply but let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings.
 
That balance keeps roots healthy once you plant cilantro seedlings outside.
 

So, When to Plant Cilantro Seedlings Outside?

Cilantro seedlings can be planted outside once soil temperatures stay above 60°F and the danger of frost has passed.
 
Whether you plant cilantro seedlings outside in early spring or early fall, timing and preparation make all the difference.
 
Harden them off, pick a good spot, and give them proper care.
 
That way, when you plant cilantro seedlings outside, they’ll reward you with fresh, flavorful leaves all season long.
 
Happy planting.