How to Grow Cilantro from Cuttings: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you love cooking with fresh herbs, you’ve probably wished you could have an endless supply of cilantro. Well, good news! Growing cilantro from cuttings is super easy and can save you a lot of trips to the grocery store. 

Plus, it’s a fun project that gives you fresh, aromatic cilantro whenever needed. Let’s dive in and get started!

Materials Needed

Before we get our hands dirty, let’s gather everything we’ll need:

• Fresh cilantro stems (about 4-6 inches long)
• A pair of sharp scissors or pruning shears
• Small containers or jars (for water propagation)
• Pots with drainage holes (for soil planting)
• High-quality potting soil
• Rooting hormone (optional, but helpful)
• Water
• Spray bottle (for misting)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Selecting Healthy Cilantro Cuttings
   • Look for vibrant, green stems with no yellowing or wilting.
   • Choose stems that are at least 4-6 inches long.
2. Preparing the Cuttings
   • Cut the stems just below a node (where leaves join the stem).
   • Remove the lower leaves, leaving only the top few sets of leaves.
   • If using rooting hormone, dip the cut end into the hormone powder.
3. Using Rooting Hormone (Optional)
   • Rooting hormone can speed up the rooting process but is not essential.
   • Simply dip the cut end of the stem into the powder before planting.
4. Planting the Cuttings
   • Water Propagation: Place the cuttings in a small jar with enough water to cover the nodes but not the leaves. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
   • Soil Propagation: Fill a small pot with well-draining potting soil. Make a hole in the soil with your finger or a pencil and place the cutting in it. Gently firm the soil around the stem.
5. Providing the Right Conditions
   • Place your cuttings in a bright spot, but out of direct sunlight.
   • Ideal temperature: 65-70°F (18-21°C).
   • Maintain humidity by misting the leaves with a spray bottle every few days.
6. Watering and Maintenance
   • Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
   • If propagating in water, ensure the water level stays consistent.
7. Transplanting the Cuttings (if rooted in water)
   • Once roots are about 2 inches long, they’re ready for soil.
   • Plant the rooted cuttings in small pots with drainage holes filled with potting soil.
   • Water well and keep in a bright, warm spot.

Caring for Your Growing Cilantro

To keep your cilantro happy and thriving, you’ll want to fertilize it with a balanced liquid fertilizer about once a month. Regularly pinch off the tops to encourage bushier growth, and aim to harvest when the plant reaches about 6 inches tall. 

Watch out for pests like aphids and spider mites. If they appear, a simple water spray mixed with mild soap should keep them at bay.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

If your cilantro leaves start wilting or turning yellow, it’s often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Check the soil and adjust your watering habits accordingly. Slow growth can usually be resolved by ensuring the plant gets enough light and a mild fertilizer. 

Root rot, typically caused by overwatering, can be prevented by allowing the soil to dry out between waterings and ensuring proper drainage.

Additional Tips and Tricks

Cilantro grows well alongside basil, tomatoes, and spinach, so consider companion planting to maximize your garden space. To keep your cilantro supply steady, sow new cuttings every few weeks. After harvesting, you can store cilantro in a jar with water in the fridge, or chop and freeze it in ice cube trays for later use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I grow cilantro indoors? 

Absolutely! Cilantro grows well indoors as long as it gets enough light. A sunny windowsill or grow lights will do the trick.

How long does it take for cilantro cuttings to root? 

Typically, you’ll see roots forming in about 1-2 weeks.

Can I use cilantro cuttings from the grocery store? 

Yes, you can! Just make sure the stems are fresh and healthy.

Conclusion

And there you have it! Growing cilantro from cuttings is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. You’ll have a fresh, endless supply of cilantro right at your fingertips. So grab those scissors and get started—your future self (and your taste buds) will thank you!