How To Correctly Water Your Cilantro For A Healthier Plant

Cilantro may be a flavorful kitchen staple, but in the garden, it can be picky when it comes to moisture. Water is one of the most critical factors in keeping this herb healthy and productive, and it's also where most gardeners, particularly beginners, go wrong. Knowing how to grow and care for your cilantro plant is not complicated but getting the water amounts right may feel like trial and error at first. Too much water leaves the roots soggy and prone to rot, while too little causes the plant to wilt, struggle, and bolt far sooner than it should. Striking the right balance is the key to success. The best approach is consistent, moderate watering that keeps the soil evenly moist without ever becoming soggy, not letting the soil dry out too much, and adjusting to the different water needs cilantro has from seed germination to seedlings and then as mature plants.

If you are growing your cilantro from seed, use a spray bottle to mist the surface of the soil so it stays moist evenly and doesn't become overly saturated. This is one of the best methods for growing cilantro indoors but also works fine for garden-grown cilantro. Check your seeds every day to make sure you know when to mist them again. You want the soil to feel wet when you touch it, but it needs to drain well and not feel soggy or oversaturated. Once your seeds grow into seedlings, provide your cilantro with 1 inch of water each week to help them grow healthy foliage, develop height, and establish strong roots. Make sure the soil stays moist consistently, but it doesn't become saturated.

One of the first steps for watering cilantro properly is being able to recognize the signals it sends to let you know it is thirsty. If the leaves on your plants start to look wilted or they curl up, they are feeling thirsty and need a drink. If the edges of the leaves are crispy or brown, they have needed water for a long time, which is why your plants are looking dehydrated. It is possible to save a dehydrated cilantro plant, although you may not be able to save the leaves that have gotten crunchy. A good, sound watering routine is crucial for a healthy cilantro plant. This routine will work just as well for your outdoor-grown cilantro as it does for cilantro grown indoors. 

Drainage is critical for proper watering. Make sure that the containers your plants are in or the garden patch they are planted in drain well and don't have excessive or standing water. Checking your plants' top soil daily is an important step that shouldn't be missed. This is especially important during the warmer months when the soil may dry out faster. You never want your cilantro's soil to completely dry out. When it is dry 1 inch down, it's time to water. The best time to water is in the morning or mid-morning, so the leaves have time to dry off before the sun goes down. This will prevent fungus from potentially developing.