When to plant cilantro
Short answer
Plant cilantro about 2 weeks before your last spring frost. In a mid climate (zone 5) that's around Apr 1. Enter your ZIP for your exact dates.
| Climate zone | Start indoors | Plant outside | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | — | Jan 1 | Feb 15 |
| Zone 2 | — | Feb 1 | Mar 18 |
| Zone 3 | — | Feb 24 | Apr 10 |
| Zone 4 | — | Mar 16 | Apr 30 |
| Zone 5 | — | Apr 1 | May 16 |
| Zone 6 | — | Apr 16 | May 31 |
| Zone 7 | — | May 1 | Jun 15 |
| Zone 8 | — | May 18 | Jul 2 |
Higher climate-zone numbers are colder, so planting shifts later. Cilantro is a semi-hardy crop. Enter your ZIP in the calculator for your exact zone and dates.
Your exact dates
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Frequently asked questions
When should I plant cilantro?
Sow cilantro directly about 2 weeks before your last spring frost — it tolerates cold. In a warmer zone 4 that's around Mar 16; in a colder zone 6, Apr 16.
Can I direct sow cilantro?
Yes — cilantro is usually sown directly in the garden rather than started indoors.
How long until cilantro is ready to harvest?
About 45 days from transplant or sowing. In zone 6, plants set out around Apr 16 are typically ready near May 31.