Cilantro is ready to harvest when the leaves reach full size but before the plant begins to flower. Learning how to harvest cilantro is simple, and it helps you get the most flavor from your plants. You can start picking leaves just a few weeks after planting.
This guide covers everything you need to know. You will learn when to pick, how to cut, and ways to store your harvest. Follow these steps for fresh cilantro all season.
Why Harvesting Cilantro Correctly Matters
Harvesting at the right time keeps the plant producing. If you wait too long, the plant bolts and the leaves turn bitter. Bolting means the plant sends up a flower stalk and stops making new leaves.
Regular harvesting also encourages bushier growth. The more you pick, the more leaves the plant produces. This gives you a longer harvest period and better flavor.
When To Harvest Cilantro
Timing is everything with cilantro. The leaves are most tender and flavorful before the plant flowers. Check your plants every few days once they are established.
Signs That Cilantro Is Ready
- Leaves are about 2 to 3 inches long
- The plant has at least 6 to 8 mature leaves
- Stems look firm and green, not woody
- No flower buds have appeared yet
Most cilantro plants are ready to harvest 3 to 4 weeks after planting. If you started from seed, count from when the seedlings are about 2 inches tall.
Best Time Of Day To Harvest
Harvest in the morning after the dew dries. This is when the leaves have the highest oil content and the strongest flavor. Avoid harvesting in the heat of the afternoon, as leaves can wilt quickly.
If you cannot harvest in the morning, choose late evening. The plant will be less stressed and the leaves will stay crisp longer.
How To Harvest Cilantro
Now we get to the main event. The exact keyword “how to harvest cilantro” fits perfectly here because this is the core of the process. Follow these steps for the best results.
Tools You Will Need
- Sharp scissors or garden shears
- A clean bowl or basket
- Optional: a damp paper towel for storing
Using sharp tools prevents tearing the stems. Tearing can damage the plant and invite disease. Clean your tools before starting to avoid spreading any pathogens.
Step-by-Step Harvesting Instructions
- Look for outer leaves that are fully grown. These are the largest leaves on the plant.
- Grasp the stem near the base of the leaf you want to cut.
- Use your scissors to snip the stem about 1 to 2 inches above the soil line.
- Leave the inner, smaller leaves to continue growing.
- Collect the cut stems in your bowl or basket.
Never cut the entire plant at once. Always leave at least one-third of the leaves so the plant can regrow. This method gives you multiple harvests from the same plant.
How Much To Harvest At One Time
You can take up to one-third of the plant’s leaves per harvest. If the plant is large, you might take half. But be careful not to strip it bare.
For small plants, just pick a few leaves. For mature plants, you can harvest a handful. The plant will recover faster if you leave enough foliage for photosynthesis.
How To Harvest Cilantro Without Killing The Plant
Many beginners worry about damaging their plants. The good news is that cilantro is very forgiving. As long as you follow a few rules, your plant will keep producing.
Cutting Vs. Pulling
Always cut the stems with scissors. Do not pull or yank the leaves off. Pulling can uproot the plant or damage the main stem.
If you need to remove a whole stem, cut it at the base. This encourages new growth from the center of the plant. Pulling leaves often leaves ragged edges that heal slowly.
Harvesting From The Outside In
Work from the outside of the plant toward the center. The outer leaves are older and ready to be picked. The inner leaves are younger and need more time to grow.
This method keeps the plant looking full and healthy. It also ensures you always have fresh leaves coming up from the center.
What To Do After Harvesting
Once you have your cilantro, you need to handle it properly. Fresh cilantro wilts quickly if not stored correctly. Follow these tips to keep it crisp.
Cleaning Your Cilantro
Rinse the leaves in cool water to remove dirt and insects. Shake off excess water or use a salad spinner. Pat the leaves dry with a clean towel.
Do not soak the leaves for too long. They can become waterlogged and lose flavor. A quick rinse is all you need.
Storing Fresh Cilantro
There are two main ways to store cilantro. Both work well, so choose the one that fits your routine.
Method 1: In the Refrigerator
- Place the stems in a jar with about an inch of water.
- Cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag.
- Change the water every 2 days.
- Use within 5 to 7 days.
Method 2: In a Damp Paper Towel
- Wrap the cilantro in a slightly damp paper towel.
- Place it in a resealable plastic bag.
- Store in the crisper drawer of your fridge.
- Use within 3 to 5 days.
Both methods keep the leaves fresh and prevent them from turning slimy. Check the leaves every day and remove any that are wilting.
How To Harvest Cilantro Seeds (Coriander)
If you let your cilantro plant flower, it will produce seeds. These seeds are called coriander. You can harvest them for cooking or for planting next season.
When To Harvest Cilantro Seeds
Wait until the flowers fade and the seed heads turn brown. The seeds should feel hard and dry to the touch. If they are still green, leave them on the plant longer.
Harvest on a dry day to prevent mold. Wet seeds can rot during storage. Check the weather forecast and pick before rain is expected.
How To Collect The Seeds
- Cut the seed heads off the plant with scissors.
- Place them in a paper bag or on a tray.
- Let them dry for a few days in a warm, airy spot.
- Rub the seed heads between your hands to release the seeds.
- Remove any chaff or debris.
Store the seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. They will stay viable for up to 2 years. You can use them whole or grind them for cooking.
Common Mistakes When Harvesting Cilantro
Even experienced gardeners make mistakes. Here are the most common ones and how to avoid them.
Harvesting Too Late
Waiting too long to harvest is the biggest mistake. Once the plant bolts, the leaves lose flavor. Check your plants every few days and harvest as soon as the leaves are big enough.
If you see flower buds forming, harvest immediately. You can still use the leaves, but they will be less flavorful. Cut the flower stalk to delay bolting.
Harvesting Too Much At Once
Taking too many leaves stresses the plant. It may stop growing or bolt early. Always leave at least one-third of the leaves on the plant.
If you need a large amount of cilantro, plant multiple seeds. Stagger your plantings so you always have a fresh supply. This way you can harvest heavily from one plant without harming it.
Using Dull Tools
Dull scissors or shears crush the stems. This can damage the plant and make it harder for the wound to heal. Keep your tools sharp and clean.
If you do not have garden shears, kitchen scissors work fine. Just make sure they are clean and sharp. A sharp blade makes a clean cut that heals quickly.
How To Encourage Continuous Growth
With proper harvesting, cilantro can produce for weeks. Here are tips to keep your plants healthy and productive.
Regular Harvesting Schedule
Harvest every 5 to 7 days during the growing season. This signals the plant to keep producing new leaves. If you skip a week, the plant may start to bolt.
Set a reminder on your phone if you tend to forget. A quick harvest takes only a few minutes. The payoff is fresh cilantro whenever you need it.
Fertilizing After Harvest
Give your plants a light feeding after each harvest. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. This replaces the nutrients the plant used to grow new leaves.
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause the leaves to become tough. A little goes a long way. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer label.
Watering Consistently
Cilantro likes consistent moisture. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Do not let the soil dry out completely, as this can trigger bolting.
Mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture. This also keeps the soil cool in hot weather. Cilantro prefers cooler temperatures for best growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Harvest Cilantro After It Flowers?
Yes, but the leaves will be less flavorful. Once the plant flowers, the leaves turn bitter. It is better to harvest before flowering for the best taste.
How Often Should I Harvest Cilantro?
Every 5 to 7 days is ideal. Regular harvesting keeps the plant producing new leaves. You can harvest more often if the plant is large and healthy.
Will Cilantro Regrow After Cutting?
Yes, if you leave at least one-third of the leaves. The plant will send out new growth from the center. With proper care, you can get multiple harvests.
Can I Harvest The Whole Cilantro Plant At Once?
You can, but it will not regrow. If you need a large amount, pull the entire plant. For continuous harvest, take only the outer leaves.
How Do I Store Cilantro For A Long Time?
Freeze cilantro for long-term storage. Chop the leaves and place them in an ice cube tray with water or oil. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.
Final Tips For Success
Harvesting cilantro is easy once you know the basics. Start early, cut often, and leave enough leaves for regrowth. Your plants will reward you with fresh flavor all season.
If you live in a warm climate, plant cilantro in partial shade. This helps prevent bolting and extends the harvest period. In cooler areas, full sun works fine.
Remember to check your plants every few days. Cilantro grows fast, and you do not want to miss the perfect harvest window. A little attention goes a long way.
Now you have all the information you need. Go out and harvest your cilantro with confidence. Enjoy the fresh taste in your salads, salsas, and curries.