How to Grow Coriander Indoors (Fresh Flavor Year-Round)

Coriander, also known as cilantro, is a must-have herb for curries, salads, salsas, and soups. The good news is you don’t need a garden to grow it — coriander thrives indoors with the right care. In this beginner-friendly guide, you’ll learn how to grow coriander indoors year-round for a fresh supply of flavorful leaves whenever you need them.

Why Grow Coriander Indoors?

Fresh coriander from the store often wilts quickly, but growing it indoors solves that problem.

• Always fresh: Harvest leaves as you need them.

• Year-round growth: No waiting for outdoor seasons.

• Beginner-friendly: Easy to grow in pots and windowsills.

• Health benefits: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, plus antioxidants.

Best Conditions for Growing Coriander Indoors

Coriander grows quickly if given the right conditions.

• Light: At least 4–5 hours of direct sunlight or 10–12 hours under grow lights.

• Temperature: 18–22°C (65–72°F). Avoid very hot rooms, as coriander may bolt (flower early).

• Soil: Loose, well-draining potting mix enriched with compost.

• Container: 6–8 inch pot with drainage holes is ideal.

This Indoor Herb Potting Mix is perfect for coriander because it drains well while keeping roots moist — exactly what this herb needs to thrive.

Planting Coriander Indoors

Coriander can be grown from seeds or starter plants, but seeds are the most common method.

1. From seed: Sow seeds ¼ inch deep, spaced about 1 inch apart. Germination takes 7–10 days.
2. From starter plants: Repot store-bought coriander plants into better soil for stronger growth.
3. Succession planting: Sow new seeds every 2–3 weeks to keep a constant supply.

Caring for Indoor Coriander

Coriander grows fast but needs steady care to keep producing.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.

• Fertilizer: Feed every 3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

• Pruning: Snip outer leaves first, leaving the center to regrow.

• Bolting prevention: Keep coriander cool and well-watered to delay flowering.

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Harvesting Coriander Indoors

• Start harvesting once plants are 6–8 inches tall.

• Cut leaves from the outside first so new growth continues.

• For seeds (coriander spice), let plants flower and form seeds, then dry them for storage.

• Regular harvesting helps delay bolting and keeps plants productive.

Best Varieties of Coriander for Indoor Growing

• ‘Calypso’ – Slow to bolt, ideal for continuous leaf harvest.

• ‘Leisure’ – Reliable, quick-growing variety.

• ‘Cruiser’ – Vigorous growth, strong stems, great for pots.

• ‘Moroccan’ – Dual-purpose variety for both leaves and seeds.

Common Problems When Growing Coriander Indoors

• Bolting (flowering early): Caused by heat or lack of water. Keep plants cool and moist.

• Leggy growth: Not enough light — move to a sunnier spot or use grow lights.

• Yellow leaves: Usually from overwatering or poor drainage.

For expert advice, see the Royal Horticultural Society’s coriander guide.

FAQs About Growing Coriander Indoors

1. How long does coriander take to grow indoors?
You can start harvesting leaves in just 3–4 weeks from seed.

2. Can coriander grow indoors all year round?
Yes — with enough light and proper watering, it thrives year-round indoors.

3. How do I stop coriander from bolting?
Keep it cool, harvest regularly, and re-sow seeds every few weeks.

Related Articles

• Best Soil Mix for Indoor Succulents

• How to Prevent and Treat Root Rot in Houseplants

• Compact Indoor Trees

Final Thoughts on Growing Coriander Indoors

Coriander is one of the easiest and most rewarding herbs to grow indoors. With just a pot, some good soil, and a sunny spot, you can enjoy a steady supply of fresh, aromatic leaves all year round. Start growing coriander today, and you’ll never run out of this versatile kitchen herb again.