Ever dreamed of having fresh, fragrant cilantro growing right in your own garden? That zesty flavor can transform your tacos, salsas, and countless other dishes. But when it comes to choosing cilantro seeds for planting, the options can feel a little overwhelming. Do you pick the standard kind, or are there special varieties that do better in your climate? It’s easy to get lost in the seed packets, wondering which one will give you the best harvest and the most delicious leaves.
This is where we come in! We’re going to cut through the confusion and help you find the perfect cilantro seeds for your planting adventure. By the end of this post, you’ll understand what makes different cilantro seeds unique and how to pick the ones that will thrive. Get ready to sow the seeds of success and enjoy a bountiful cilantro harvest all season long!
Our Top 5 Cilantro Seeds For Planting Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cilantro Seeds For Planting Detailed Reviews
1. Seed Needs
Rating: 9.0/10
Grow your own fresh cilantro with Seed Needs’ Heirloom Cilantro Herb Seeds. This packet gives you 250 non-GMO, untreated seeds, perfect for adding that classic cilantro flavor to your dishes. These seeds are ready to sprout and bring vibrant flavor straight from your garden.
What We Like:
- Quality Seeds: These seeds are designed for the current and next growing seasons. They are stored carefully to stay fresh and potent.
- Generous Quantity: You get 250 seeds, which is a lot! You can plant a large patch or save some for later.
- Informative Packets: Each packet has a pretty picture of cilantro and clear instructions on how to plant the seeds.
- Non-GMO Promise: Seed Needs guarantees their seeds are not genetically modified. Most are heirloom and open-pollinated.
- Fast Germination: These seeds are very fresh. If you plant them right, you’ll see sprouts in just a few days.
- Protective Packaging: The seeds come in tough, moisture-resistant packaging that keeps them fresh for a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Hybrid Options: While most seeds are heirloom, there are a few hybrids, which might not appeal to everyone seeking exclusively heirloom varieties.
Seed Needs Cilantro Herb Seeds offer a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, homegrown cilantro. With their commitment to quality and fast germination, you’ll be harvesting your own delicious herb in no time.
2. The Old Farmer’s Almanac Heirloom Organic Cilantro Seeds (Slow Bolt) – Approx 180 Seeds – Certified Organic
Rating: 8.6/10
Growing your own fresh herbs is a rewarding experience, and these Old Farmer’s Almanac Heirloom Organic Cilantro Seeds are a fantastic way to start. If you love the bright, fresh flavor of cilantro but hate when it bolts (goes to seed) too quickly, these “slow bolt” seeds are your answer. They are certified organic, meaning they are grown without harmful chemicals. Plus, they are non-GMO and heirloom, which means they are open-pollinated and have been passed down through generations. You’ll be happy to know these seeds come from right here in the USA.
What We Like:
- Slow Bolt Variety: These seeds are bred to resist bolting, giving you a longer harvest of delicious cilantro.
- Certified Organic: You can trust that these seeds are grown with sustainable and earth-friendly practices.
- Heirloom & Open Pollinated: These seeds allow you to save seeds from your harvest to plant again next year, continuing the heirloom tradition.
- USA Origin: Supporting local growers and ensuring quality from seed to harvest.
- Generous Seed Count: Approximately 180 seeds means you have plenty to plant for a bountiful supply.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific Growing Instructions: While the name implies ease, detailed planting depth and spacing tips would be helpful for beginners.
- Pest Resistance Information: Knowing if this variety has any natural resistance to common cilantro pests would be a bonus.
These heirloom cilantro seeds offer a delightful and sustainable way to enjoy fresh herbs. They are a smart choice for any home gardener looking for quality and reliability.
3. Sow Right Seeds – Bulk Cilantro Seeds for Planting – 1 Ounce
Rating: 9.4/10
Ready to fill your kitchen with the vibrant aroma and taste of fresh cilantro? The Sow Right Seeds Bulk Cilantro Seeds offer a fantastic opportunity to grow an abundance of this popular herb. This jumbo pack contains at least 1 ounce, which is about 2000 non-GMO heirloom seeds, ensuring you have plenty to start your own kitchen herb garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these seeds are designed for easy growth indoors or outdoors, making it simple to have fresh cilantro on hand whenever you need it for cooking.
What We Like:
- Grow All You Want: You get a huge amount of seeds (at least 1oz, around 2000 seeds) to grow as much cilantro as you desire, perfect for sharing or selling.
- Productive Growth: Cilantro germinates quickly (7-10 days) and matures in 55-75 days, providing a steady supply of fresh herbs. It thrives in USDA Zones 2-11.
- Fresh Flavor on Hand: Elevate your cooking with the amazing taste and smell of fresh cilantro. It’s perfect for salsa, tacos, stir-fries, and more.
- Easy to Grow: Clear instructions are included, and Sow Right Seeds offers support if you have questions. They also guarantee germination.
- Safe and Sustainable: These are fresh, non-GMO heirloom seeds. The company uses solar power and has taken the Safe Seed Pledge.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cilantro can bolt (go to seed) quickly in hot weather, so succession planting might be needed for a continuous harvest.
- The “jumbo pack” size might be overwhelming for very small gardens or beginners with limited space.
This bulk pack of Sow Right Seeds is an excellent choice for anyone who loves cilantro. You’ll enjoy the convenience of fresh herbs and the satisfaction of growing your own.
4. 500+ Cilantro Seeds for Planting – Heirloom Non-GMO USA Grown Herb Seeds in Premium Protective Packaging – AKA Coriander
Rating: 9.3/10
Ready to add a burst of fresh flavor to your cooking? The 500+ Cilantro Seeds for Planting from RDR Seeds offer a fantastic way to grow your own aromatic herbs right at home. These heirloom, non-GMO seeds are proudly USA-grown, making them a healthy and sustainable choice for any kitchen gardener. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these seeds are designed for easy growth and deliver high-quality cilantro for all your culinary adventures.
What We Like:
- Grow your own flavorful cilantro anywhere, from indoor pots to outdoor gardens.
- Enjoy 100% non-GMO and heirloom quality seeds that are safe and sustainable.
- These seeds are easy to grow and germinate quickly, perfect for any space.
- The premium, waterproof packaging keeps seeds fresh for longer.
- RDR Seeds offers a satisfaction guarantee, so you can plant with confidence.
- You get over 500 seeds, which is a great value for home cooks and gardeners.
What Could Be Improved:
- While easy to grow, cilantro can sometimes bolt (go to seed) quickly in hot weather, which is a natural characteristic of the plant but something to be aware of.
With RDR Seeds, you’re investing in quality and freshness. Start your own flavorful garden today and enjoy the taste of homegrown cilantro!
5. Gaea’s Blessing Seeds – Cilantro Seeds – Leisure – Non-GMO Heirloom Seeds with Easy to Follow Instructions – 90% Germination Rate
Rating: 8.8/10
Grow your own fresh, flavorful cilantro with Gaea’s Blessing Seeds! These non-GMO, heirloom seeds are perfect for home gardeners looking for a reliable and productive harvest. Cilantro is a must-have for so many delicious dishes, from zesty Mexican tacos to aromatic Asian stir-fries. You’ll love the ease of growing these seeds, and the generous yield they provide. Gaea’s Blessing is a company that cares about the planet and your satisfaction, so you can feel good about your purchase.
What We Like:
- High germination rate: You can expect about 90% of these seeds to sprout, meaning more plants for your garden.
- Bolt resistant: These seeds are bred to resist bolting (going to seed too quickly), so you get more leafy growth for longer.
- High yield: Expect a large amount of dark green, nutrient-rich leaves from each plant.
- Flavorful and aromatic: The leaves have an intense, wonderful flavor that enhances many cuisines.
- Non-GMO and Heirloom: These seeds are natural and have been passed down through generations, preserving biodiversity.
- Easy to follow instructions: Even beginners can successfully grow these cilantro seeds.
- Sustainable company: Gaea’s Blessing is committed to environmental wellness and customer happiness.
What Could Be Improved:
- Seed quantity: While the germination rate is high, the packet contains about 3.4 grams, which might seem small to some avid gardeners.
If you want to add a burst of fresh flavor to your meals and enjoy a rewarding gardening experience, these Gaea’s Blessing cilantro seeds are an excellent choice.
Grow Your Own Flavor: The Ultimate Cilantro Seed Buying Guide
Love that fresh, zesty flavor in your tacos, salsas, and curries? Growing your own cilantro is a fantastic way to always have it on hand! But not all cilantro seeds are created equal. This guide will help you pick the best seeds for a successful harvest.
Key Features to Look For
1. Seed Type
- Heirloom vs. Hybrid: Heirloom seeds come from old, open-pollinated varieties. They often have unique flavors and you can save seeds from your harvest to plant next year. Hybrid seeds are created by crossing two parent plants. They might offer better disease resistance or faster growth.
2. Germination Rate
This tells you how likely the seeds are to sprout. Look for a high germination rate, usually over 70-80%. A good seed packet will often state this percentage.
3. Seed Viability (Freshness)
Fresh seeds sprout better. Check the “packed for” or “best by” date on the seed packet. Older seeds may not grow well.
4. Variety Specifics
Different cilantro varieties have slightly different tastes, growth habits, and how quickly they “bolt” (go to seed in hot weather). Some popular choices include ‘Slow Bolt’ for longer harvests in warmer climates, and ‘Santo’ for a classic, strong flavor.
Important Materials (What’s in the Packet)
When you buy cilantro seeds, you’re getting tiny powerhouses of potential! Inside the packet, you’ll find small, round to oval seeds. These seeds are actually dried fruits of the cilantro plant. Each seed contains the embryo of a new cilantro plant. They also have a protective outer shell and stored food to help the seedling get started. Good quality seeds will be clean, free from debris, and look healthy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Proper Storage: Seeds stored in a cool, dry, dark place maintain their viability longer.
- Reputable Seed Companies: Buying from well-known brands often means better quality control.
- Certified Organic: If you prefer, organic seeds are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Old Seeds: Seeds past their prime lose their ability to sprout.
- Poor Storage: Heat, moisture, and light can damage seeds.
- Contamination: Seeds mixed with dirt, weed seeds, or broken pieces are lower quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
Growing cilantro from seed is a rewarding experience for gardeners of all levels. Beginners will find it relatively easy to get started. You can plant seeds directly in your garden bed or in pots. Cilantro loves sunshine but can bolt quickly in intense heat. Planting in a spot with some afternoon shade can extend your harvest.
Once your cilantro grows, the uses are endless! You’ll have fresh leaves for garnishes, chopped into salads, blended into pesto, or added to your favorite Mexican and Asian dishes. Some gardeners even let their cilantro go to flower. The yellow flowers attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and bees. You can also harvest the dried seeds to use as the spice coriander!
Cilantro Seed FAQs
Q: What is the best time to plant cilantro seeds?
A: You can plant cilantro seeds in early spring after the last frost. You can also plant them again in the fall for a late harvest. Cilantro prefers cooler weather.
Q: How deep should I plant cilantro seeds?
A: Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep in the soil.
Q: How far apart should I space cilantro seeds?
A: You can sow them fairly close together, about 1 inch apart. You can thin them later to about 6-8 inches apart if you want larger plants.
Q: How long does it take for cilantro seeds to sprout?
A: Cilantro seeds usually sprout in 7 to 14 days, but it can sometimes take up to 21 days.
Q: How much sun does cilantro need?
A: Cilantro likes full sun, but in hot climates, it will appreciate some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Q: Why does my cilantro keep going to seed (bolting)?
A: Cilantro bolts when the weather gets too hot. Planting bolt-resistant varieties or providing shade can help.
Q: Can I grow cilantro indoors?
A: Yes! You can grow cilantro indoors in pots near a sunny window. Make sure the pot has drainage holes.
Q: How do I know if my cilantro seeds are bad?
A: If seeds are very old, have a broken package, or look discolored, they might not sprout. You can do a quick test by placing a few seeds on a damp paper towel in a plastic bag. If they don’t sprout after two weeks, they are likely not viable.
Q: What is the difference between cilantro seeds and coriander seeds?
A: They are the same thing! Cilantro is the name for the leafy herb, and coriander is the name for the dried seeds of the same plant.
Q: How do I store leftover cilantro seeds?
A: Store them in their original packet or an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark place, like a pantry or refrigerator.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.