Figuring out when to plant cilantro in Arizona is the key to keeping this flavorful herb on your table. The intense desert heat makes timing everything, but with a smart schedule, you can enjoy fresh cilantro for much of the year.
This guide gives you the simple calendar and tips you need for success. We’ll cover the best planting windows, how to beat the heat, and the simple steps to get your seeds growing.
When to Plant Cilantro in Arizona – Best Planting Times for
For most of Arizona, the best times to plant cilantro are during the cooler seasons. The plant bolts, or goes to seed, quickly in hot weather, becoming bitter and stopping leaf production.
Your main planting seasons are fall and spring. In the low desert regions, like Phoenix and Tucson, you can also have success with winter planting.
The Ideal Arizona Cilantro Planting Calendar
Your specific dates depend on your elevation and microclimate. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Low Deserts (Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma): Plant from late September through March. The absolute prime months are October and February.
- Mid Elevations (Prescott, Sierra Vista): Aim for early spring (March to April) and early fall (late August to September).
- High Country (Flagstaff, Payson): Plant after the last frost in late spring (May to June) and again in mid-summer for a fall harvest before the first frost.
A good rule is to sow seeds when daytime temperatures are consistently between 50°F and 80°F. Nighttime temps should ideally be below 70°F.
Why Cilantro Bolts in Arizona Heat
Cilantro is a cool-season herb. Bolting is it’s natural response to stress, primarily from long, hot days and warm soil temperatures.
Once a seed stalk forms, the plant puts its energy into flowering and making coriander seeds. The leaves become sparse and lose there best flavor. By planting at the right time, you delay this process for a longer harvest.
Step-by-Step: Planting Cilantro Successfully
Follow these steps for a healthy crop from the start.
1. Choosing Your Location and Soil
Cilantro needs about 4-6 hours of morning sun but appreciates afternoon shade in Arizona. This protects it from the most intense heat.
The soil must drain very well. Amend native clay soil with compost or use a quality potting mix for containers. The ideal pH is between 6.2 and 6.8.
2. Planting Seeds Directly
Cilantro has a taproot and dosen’t transplant well. It’s best to sow seeds directly where you want them to grow.
- Loosen the top 6-8 inches of soil.
- Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart.
- Water gently but thoroughly to moisten the soil.
- Seeds typically sprout in 7-14 days.
3. Watering and Care for Seedlings
Keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings are established. After that, water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Deep, less frequent watering is better than frequent sprinkles. It encourages deeper roots. A layer of mulch helps retain soil moisture and keeps roots cooler.
Tips for Extending Your Cilantro Harvest
Use these strategies to outsmart the Arizona climate.
- Succession Planting: This is the most effective tactic. Sow a new batch of seeds every 2-3 weeks during your planting window. This ensures a continuous supply as older plants finish.
- Use Shade Cloth: When temperatures start to climb, use a 30-50% shade cloth over your cilantro. It can significantly delay bolting by lowering the ambient temperature.
- Harvest Correctly: Regularly harvest outer leaves to encourage new growth. Never cut more than one-third of the plant at once. Pinch off any early flower buds you see immediatly.
- Choose “Slow Bolt” Varieties: While all cilantro will eventually bolt, varieties like ‘Slow Bolt’, ‘Santo’, or ‘Long Standing’ are bred to resist it longer.
Growing Cilantro in Arizona Containers
Container gardening is excellent for cilantro. It allows you to move the pot to follow shade or bring it onto a patio.
Choose a pot at least 8-12 inches deep to accommodate the taproot. Ensure it has excellent drainage holes. Container soil dries out faster, so check moisture daily during warm spells.
Common Problems and Simple Solutions
Here’s how to handle typical issues.
- Yellowing Leaves: Often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings.
- Leggy, Weak Plants: Usually means not enough sunlight. Ensure they get their minimum of 4-6 hours of direct light.
- Aphids: These small pests can cluster on stems and undersides of leaves. A strong spray of water or insecticidal soap usually takes care of them.
From Cilantro to Coriander: Using the Whole Plant
If your plant bolts, don’t pull it out! The flowers attract beneficial pollinators like bees and hoverflies.
Let the flowers turn into seeds—those are coriander. Harvest the seeds when they turn brown and are dry. You can use them in cooking or save them to plant next season.
FAQ: Your Arizona Cilantro Questions Answered
Can you grow cilantro in Arizona summer?
It is very challenging. In the low desert, summer heat causes it to bolt within days. Your best bet is in containers with heavy afternoon shade, but expect a short harvest.
What month do you plant cilantro in Phoenix?
The primary planting months in Phoenix are October through February. For the best results, start seeds in October for a fall/winter crop and again in February for a spring crop.
Does cilantro come back every year?
Cilantro is an annual, so it completes its life cycle in one season. However, it often self-seeds if you let some coriander seeds fall. You may find new volunteer plants poping up in the same spot the following cool season.
How often should I water cilantro in Arizona?
In the ground, water 1-2 times per week, depending on temperatures. In containers, you may need to water every day or every other day during hot, dry weather. Always check the soil first.
Growing cilantro in Arizona is all about working with the seasons. By planting at the right time and using a few simple shading and succession techniques, you can enjoy this fresh herb for many months. Remember to start with direct seeding in cool weather, keep the soil moist, and harvest regularly. Your next batch of homemade salsa or curry is just a few weeks away.