🌱 How to Grow Coriander (Dhaniya) from Seeds

Common Names:

• Hindi: धनिया

• Tamil: கொத்தமல்லி

• Telugu: కోతిమీర

• Malayalam: മല്ലി

• Kannada: ಕೊತ್ತಂಬರಿ ಸೊಪ್ಪು

• English: Coriander / Cilantro

• Botanical name: Coriandrum sativum

1. Choose the Right Season

• Cool-season herb

• Best time to sow:

  • October–March in mild climates

  • Can also grow in semi-shade during summer

• Ideal temperature: 15°C to 28°C

2. Prepare the Soil

• Soil Type: Loose, well-drained, and rich in organic matter

• pH Level: Neutral to slightly acidic (6.2–7.0)

• Mix in compost or cow dung manure before sowing

3. Sow the Seeds

• Crush the whole coriander seeds slightly to split them before sowing

• Depth: Sow seeds ½ inch (1.2 cm) deep

• Spacing:

  • Garden: Keep 6–8 inches between rows

  • Pots: Use 6–8 inch deep containers, sprinkle seeds evenly

• Water gently after sowing

4. Watering

• Keep soil evenly moist, not soggy

• Water every 1–2 days, especially in dry weather

• Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

5. Germination

• Seeds sprout in 7–14 days

• Once 2–3 inches tall, thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding

• Use thinned seedlings in salads or cooking

6. Sunlight & Temperature

• Needs 4–6 hours of sunlight per day

• Can tolerate light shade in hotter climates

• Protect from harsh afternoon sun during peak summer

7. Fertilization

• Usually doesn’t need much fertilization

• Optional: Add light compost after 3–4 weeks

• Avoid heavy feeding — it affects leaf flavor

8. Pest Control

• Common pests: Aphids, leaf miners

• Use neem spray or insecticidal soap

• Keep area weed-free and ventilated

9. Harvesting

• Ready to harvest in 3–4 weeks for leaves

• Harvest outer leaves first — allow inner ones to grow

• For seeds: Allow plant to flower and dry

  • Harvest seeds after 45–60 days when brown and dry

10. Regrow Tip

• Let a few plants flower and go to seed

• Dry and store seeds for the next season

• Self-seeds easily in garden beds

🌿 Health Benefits of Coriander

• Excellent source of Vitamin C, K, and antioxidants

• Supports digestion and detoxification

• Has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties

• Fresh leaves boost immunity and metabolism