If you’re wondering when to plant cilantro in Southern California, you’re in the right place. Getting the timing right is the single most important step for a successful harvest, and our unique climate makes it a year-round possibility with a few smart tricks.
This guide gives you the simple, practical steps to grow cilantro successfully. You’ll learn the best planting windows, how to avoid it bolting to seed too fast, and tips for a continuous supply.
When to Plant Cilantro in Southern California
Unlike many regions with a single planting season, Southern California offers two primary windows and opportunities for nearly year-round growth. The key is understanding cilantro’s preference for cool weather.
The Two Best Planting Seasons
For the lushest, longest-lasting cilantro leaves, target these periods:
- Late Fall through Early Winter (October to January): This is often the most successful season. The cooling temperatures allow cilantro to establish without the immediate threat of heat. Plants grow steadily through the mild winter.
- Late Winter through Early Spring (February to early April): Plant as soon as the soil is workable after any frost risk has passed. You’ll get a good harvest before the summer heat arrives.
Year-Round Tips for Coastal & Inland Areas
Your microclimate changes the rules slightly.
- Coastal Zones (LA, San Diego, Orange County): You can often plant cilantro succesfully almost any month. Summer planting is possible if you choose a spot with afternoon shade.
- Inland Valleys & Deserts (Riverside, San Bernardino): Stick strictly to the fall and spring windows. Summer heat will cause cilantro to bolt (flower) almost immediately unless it’s heavily shaded.
Understanding “Bolting”
Cilantro is genetically programmed to flower quickly in warm weather and long days—this is called bolting. Once it bolts, leaf production slows and the flavor changes. Our goal is to delay this as long as possible.
How to Delay Bolting
- Plant at the Right Time: This is your first and best defense.
- Choose “Slow-Bolt” Varieties: Seeds labeled ‘Slow Bolt’ or ‘Long Standing’ are bred for this.
- Provide Afternoon Shade: In warmer months, a location that gets shade after 2 PM is ideal.
- Keep it Well-Watered: Stressed plants bolt faster.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Follow these simple steps for the best results.
1. Choosing Your Site and Soil
Cilantro needs well-draining soil. If you have heavy clay, amend it with compost. A raised bed or container is a great option. The site should get at least 4-6 hours of morning sun.
2. Planting Seeds Directly (Recommended)
Cilantro has a taproot and dosen’t transplant well. Always sow seeds directly in the garden.
- Loosen the soil about 8-10 inches deep.
- Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart.
- Water gently but thoroughly.
- Seeds typically sprout in 7-14 days.
3. Watering and Care
Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy, especially during germination and seedling stage. Once established, water when the top inch of soil feels dry. A layer of mulch helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool.
4. Feeding Your Plants
Cilantro isn’t a heavy feeder. Mixing compost into the soil before planting is usually sufficient. If growth seems slow, you can use a balanced organic fertilizer at half-strength.
Harvesting for Continuous Supply
You can start harvesting leaves once the plant is about 6 inches tall. The secret to a non-stop harvest is succession planting.
Succession Planting Schedule
Instead of planting all your seeds at once, sow a new small batch every 2-3 weeks during your cool growing seasons. This way, as one batch starts to bolt, you have younger plants ready to harvest. It’s the best method for a constant supply.
How to Harvest Correctly
- Snip outer leaves near the base of the stem, leaving the inner core to continue growing.
- Never harvest more than one-third of the plant at a time.
- If the plant starts to bolt, you can still harvest the flavorful seeds, which are coriander.
Growing Cilantro in Containers
This is a fantastic option for Southern California gardens, especially for managing sun exposure. Use a pot at least 8-12 inches deep with drainage holes. Place it where you can easily move it for ideal sun/shade balance as seasons change. Container plants will need watering more frequently.
Common Problems and Solutions
Cilantro has few pest issues, but here’s what to watch for:
- Aphids: Blast them off with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Leaf Miners: Remove and destroy affected leaves. Floating row covers at planting can prevent them.
- Powdery Mildew: Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and water in the morning so leaves dry.
- Bolting Too Fast: Revisit the “How to Delay Bolting” tips above—it’s almost always due to heat or stress.
FAQ: Your Southern California Cilantro Questions
Can I plant cilantro in the summer?
In hot inland areas, it’s very challenging. Along the coast, you can try with afternoon shade and consistent moisture, but expect it to bolt quickly. It’s often easier to focus on other herbs in peak summer.
What month is best for planting cilantro?
For most of Southern California, October and February are excellent starting points for your succession plantings.
How long does cilantro take to grow?
You can usually begin harvesting leaves about 4-6 weeks after planting the seeds.
Should I start seeds indoors?
It’s not recommended due to cilantro’s sensitive taproot. Direct sowing is always the best and easiest method.
Why did my cilantro grow so tall and thin?
This is usually a sign of not enough sunlight or overcrowding. Ensure plants get enough morning sun and are thinned to about 4-6 inches apart.
By following this timing and these simple steps, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown cilantro for a large part of the year. The most important takeaway is to work with our climate by planting in the cool seasons and using shade and water strategically when it’s warmer. Get those seeds in the ground at the right time, and you’ll be set for success.