Coriander
Coriandrum sativum
Fast-growing annual herb for leaves and seed. In the UK, sow little and often for a steady supply of foliage, and grow in a cool, sunny spot with moist, free-draining soil to slow bolting.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Coriander
Planting Calendar
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Sow Seeds
every 2 weeksSow seeds thinly around on the surface of fine, moist seedbed or compost, then cover with a light dusting of soil. Sow a fresh batch every 14 days for a longer pick, and keep the ground evenly moist while they germinate.
Thin Seedlings
When seedlings are large enough to handle, from , thin them to the strongest plants so each one has room to make a good clump of leaves. If you prefer, lift extras carefully and move them to another patch at once.
Keep Plants Tidy
From , remove any flower buds as soon as they appear and harvest leaves often to keep plants leafy for longer. Water the soil, not the foliage, and give shade from strong midday sun if the plants start to race up to flower.
Harvest Leaves
Start picking from by snipping outer stems or taking whole small plants at the base. Keep harvesting little and often until , because regular cutting helps delay bolting and keeps fresh leaves coming.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Coriander.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Coriander to consider
Calypso
A slow-bolting coriander with useful leaf production in UK summers.
Santo
A compact, slow-to-bolt type that gives plenty of foliage for pots or small beds.
Leisure
A reliable leaf coriander that copes well with repeated cutting.
Confetti
Finely cut foliage with a milder flavour and strong leaf production.
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