How To Grow Cilantro In The Pacific Northwest

You can grow cilantro in the Pacific Northwest with surprising success once you understand its quirks.
 
Cilantro loves cool weather, and that’s one thing the PNW has plenty of.
 
The tricky part is that cilantro also bolts quickly when temperatures swing or the plant gets stressed.
 
If you’ve been wondering how to grow cilantro in the Pacific Northwest without it turning into a flower stalk overnight, you’re in the right place.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through the best timing, soil, sunlight, and care tips so you can grow cilantro in the Pacific Northwest like a pro.
 
Let’s dig in.
 

How to Grow Cilantro in the Pacific Northwest

Growing cilantro in the Pacific Northwest is absolutely doable, and here’s how to make it thrive.
 

1. Start With the Right Timing

Timing is everything when you grow cilantro in the Pacific Northwest.
 
Cilantro is a cool-season herb, so it grows best when temperatures sit between 50°F and 70°F.
 
In the PNW, that means you can plant cilantro in early spring, usually from March to May, depending on your specific zone.
 
You can also plant again in late summer or early fall for a second harvest before frost arrives.
 
If you’re in a milder coastal area, you might even grow cilantro through the winter with a little protection.
 
The key is to avoid the hottest part of summer when cilantro bolts fastest.
 

2. Choose the Right Spot and Soil

Cilantro grows best in full sun to partial shade in the Pacific Northwest.
 
Because PNW summers can get warm in inland areas, a spot with afternoon shade is often ideal.
 
The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter.
 
Cilantro hates soggy roots, and our region’s heavy rains can create waterlogged soil if you’re not careful.
 
Mix in compost before planting to improve drainage and give cilantro the nutrients it needs.
 
A raised bed or container works great if your garden soil stays wet too long.
 

Best Ways to Plant Cilantro in the Pacific Northwest

Once you know the timing and location, planting cilantro in the Pacific Northwest is straightforward.
 
Here are the best methods to try.
 

1. Direct Sowing Is Best

Cilantro doesn’t transplant well because of its long taproot.
 
Direct sowing is the way to go when you grow cilantro in the Pacific Northwest.
 
Scatter seeds about a quarter inch deep, then cover lightly with soil.
 
Keep the area moist until germination, which usually takes 7 to 10 days.
 

2. Succession Planting for a Longer Harvest

Since cilantro bolts quickly, succession planting keeps you in fresh leaves all season.
 
Sow a new batch of cilantro every two to three weeks in spring and again in late summer.
 
This way, when one patch starts flowering, the next is ready to harvest.
 

3. Growing Cilantro in Containers

Containers give you more control over soil and moisture, which helps when you grow cilantro in the Pacific Northwest.
 
Use a pot at least 10 inches deep with drainage holes.
 
You can move the pot to shade during hot spells, slowing down bolting.
 

Caring for Cilantro in the Pacific Northwest

Caring for cilantro in our climate mostly means managing water and watching for bolting.
 
Here’s what to focus on.
 

1. Water Consistently

Cilantro needs steady moisture, not soggy soil.
 
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
 
In the PNW, you may need to water less during rainy stretches and more during dry summer weeks.
 

2. Fertilize Lightly

Too much nitrogen makes cilantro grow leaves fast but bolt even faster.
 
A light feeding once or twice during the season is usually enough.
 
If you amended your soil with compost, you might not need extra fertilizer at all.
 

3. Harvest Often to Delay Bolting

The more you harvest cilantro, the longer it stays leafy.
 
Snip outer stems first, leaving the center to keep growing.
 
Once you see flower buds forming, pinch them off to extend your harvest.
 

4. Watch for Pests and Disease

Cilantro in the Pacific Northwest can attract aphids and occasionally suffer from powdery mildew in humid conditions.
 
Good airflow and spacing help prevent problems.
 
A strong spray of water knocks aphids off without harming the plant.
 

5. Let Some Go to Seed

If your cilantro bolts, don’t panic.
 
The flowers feed pollinators, and the seeds become coriander.
 
Let a few plants flower and you’ll get free seeds for next season’s crop.
 

So, How Do You Grow Cilantro in the Pacific Northwest?

You grow cilantro in the Pacific Northwest by planting at the right time, choosing a sunny spot with good drainage, and keeping the soil consistently moist.
 
Use succession planting to work around cilantro’s tendency to bolt.
 
With a little patience and these simple tips, you’ll enjoy fresh cilantro from spring through fall in your PNW garden.
 
Happy planting.