Description
Coriander Slow Bolt as the name implies is resistant to bolting / running to seed. It isn’t a hard plant to grow, and given how expensive herbs and spices tend to be, it’s well worth it for what you can save, and of course, fresh herbs and spices have far better flavours than dried ones.
There are two parts of the coriander plant that can be eaten: the leaves and the seeds. Ground coriander is made from the seeds and the can be easily crushed in a pestle and mortar or grinder. The leaves have are used fresh in salads or cooked in soups, sauces and chutneys.
Most gardeners appreciate that home grown herbs are infinitely superior, but try comparing home-grown Coriander to shop-bought – the difference can be quite startling. If you use coriander in any recipe, you would never regret planting your own.
Find your Climate Zone
Method: Sow direct
| Soil Temp: 10°C - 25°C
|
Cool Mountain: Mar - Nov
| Position: Full Sun
|
Arid: Aug - Dec
| Row Spacing: 10 cm
|
Temperate: Mar - Nov
| Harvest: 45 Days
|
Sub Tropical: Apr - Nov
| Planting Depth: 3 mm
|
Tropical: Apr - Jul
| Plant Height: 30 cm
|
Climate
- Temperature: Coriander prefers temperatures between 18°C to 22°C. Anything above 30°C can cause the plant to bolt quickly.
- Coriander is a cool season annual
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type: Coriander thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Sandy, loamy soil is ideal.
- Soil pH: Aim for a pH level between 6.2 to 6.8 for optimal growth.
- Soil Preparation: Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and drainage. It is beneficial to work in some slow-release organic fertilizers as well.
Sowing Seeds
- Direct Sowing: Plant coriander seeds directly into the garden bed as they do not transplant well due to their long taproot.
- Depth and Spacing: Sow seeds approximately 3 mm deep, spaced about 10cm apart. This spacing allows for the plants to spread out without overcrowding.
- Timing for Succession Planting: To have a continual harvest, sow seeds every two to three weeks.
Watering Needs
- Moisture Levels: Coriander requires consistent moisture. Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
- Watering Frequency: Water deeply once a week or more frequently in hot, dry conditions. Avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew.
Maintenance and Care
- Thinning: Thin seedlings once they reach about 5cm in height, keeping the strongest plants and allowing space for growth.
- Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain consistent soil temperature.
- Pruning: Regularly harvest the leaves, taking care not to remove more than one-third of the plant at any time to encourage continuous growth.
Harvesting
- Leaves: Start harvesting leaves when plants are about 15cm tall. Use scissors to snip away the outer leaves while allowing the centre to grow.
- Seeds: For coriander seeds, allow the flowers to bloom and turn brown. Once dried, harvest the seed heads and store them in a cool, dry place.
Companion Planting
Beneficial Companions
- Cabbage Family (Brassicas): Coriander can repel pests like aphids and whiteflies that affect cabbage, kale, and broccoli.
- Carrots: Protects carrot plants from carrot flies and may enhance carrot flavour.
- Tomatoes: Enhances the flavour of tomatoes and helps deter pests like hornworms.
- Chili Peppers: Coriander can improve flavour and repel common pests.
Poor Companions
- Mint: Competes for nutrients and can overwhelm coriander. Better to grow mint in a separate pot.
- Anise: Both plants share similar needs and can struggle when grown near each other due to competition.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: Watch for aphids, caterpillars, and spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a remedy.
- Diseases: Maintain air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Rotating crops annually can help reduce soil-borne diseases.
Mugwort 
Hi I sent another email but I never received my seeds?
Hi Denae, I have jut spotted your review. Many apologies for the lateness of my response, I did not receive a second email about your order and so I thought that your seeds had arrived. Could you advise? Thanks Jacqueline
Hi Denae, I responded to your email yesterday to say that Australia Post were advising of longer than normal postage times and that I would of course replace your order if the seeds never arrived. My reply may have gone to your junk email folder. Could you check and get back to me. Many thanks Jacqueline