Leisure Cilantro, also known as Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), is an essential herb that adds a fresh, aromatic flavor to a variety of dishes. Popular in cuisines around the world, this versatile plant can be used both for its fragrant leaves (cilantro) and its seeds (coriander). This packet contains 250 high-quality seeds, ideal for growing a bountiful crop in your garden. Whether you’re growing it for fresh culinary uses or to harvest the seeds for spice, Leisure Cilantro is a must-have for herb gardeners.

Key Features:

• 250 Seeds: This packet includes 250 premium Leisure Cilantro seeds, providing you with plenty of plants for your garden or kitchen.
• Dual Purpose: Grow this herb for both fresh cilantro leaves and aromatic coriander seeds, offering versatility in your culinary and spice collection.
• Fragrant and Flavorful: The fresh leaves are commonly used in salads, salsas, curries, and garnishes, while the seeds are harvested and used as a spice in cooking.
• Quick Growth: Cilantro is known for its fast-growing nature, with leaves ready for harvest in just a few weeks.
• Easy to Grow: Cilantro is an easy-to-grow herb, making it perfect for beginner gardeners and seasoned herb enthusiasts alike.
• Annual Herb: Cilantro is an annual, meaning it grows for one season, making it ideal for quick, repeat harvests during warm months.

Growing Information:

• Light Requirements: Cilantro thrives in full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 4-6 hours of sunlight each day to grow strong, healthy plants. However, it can tolerate some light afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates.
• Soil Preferences: Cilantro grows best in well-draining, moderately fertile soil. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0). Rich, loamy soil provides the ideal conditions for healthy growth.
• Planting Tips:
  • Indoor Start: Start cilantro seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date. Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and keep the soil moist. Germination typically occurs within 7-10 days at a temperature of 65-75°F (18-24°C).
  • Outdoor Planting: Cilantro can be directly seeded outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Space seeds 1-2 inches apart, and thin seedlings to 6-8 inches apart once they have a few sets of leaves.
  • Succession Planting: Cilantro has a short growing cycle and can bolt (go to seed) quickly in hot weather. For a continuous harvest, sow new seeds every 3-4 weeks during the growing season.
• Watering Needs: Cilantro prefers evenly moist soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, as cilantro is prone to root rot in soggy soil. Water the plants early in the day to prevent moisture buildup overnight.
• Temperature: Cilantro thrives in cooler temperatures, ideally between 50-85°F (10-29°C). It is not heat-tolerant and will bolt quickly in temperatures above 85°F (29°C), which is why early spring or fall planting is ideal in warmer climates.
• Fertilizing: Cilantro does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of organic compost or a balanced fertilizer at the time of planting can help support its growth. Over-fertilizing may encourage excessive leaf growth at the expense of seed production.
• Pruning and Harvesting: For fresh cilantro leaves, harvest the young leaves as soon as the plant reaches about 3-4 inches tall. Regular harvesting encourages continuous leaf production. For coriander seeds, allow the plant to flower and go to seed. Once the seeds are fully ripe and dry on the plant, they can be harvested and stored for later use.

Benefits:

• Versatile Culinary Herb: Cilantro adds a fresh, zesty flavor to a wide range of dishes, including salsas, salads, tacos, curries, and soups. The coriander seeds also add warmth and citrusy flavor to spice blends.
• Rich in Nutrients: Cilantro is a source of essential vitamins, including vitamins A, C, and K. It also contains antioxidants and has been used traditionally for its medicinal properties, including aiding digestion and supporting detoxification.
• Attracts Pollinators: Cilantro’s small, white or pink flowers attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the health and biodiversity of your garden.
• Drought-Resistant: Cilantro is relatively drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for gardens with occasional dry spells. However, regular watering helps ensure a continuous harvest.
• Fresh or Dried Use: You can enjoy cilantro fresh, as an herb in your kitchen, or harvest it for its seeds to be dried and used in cooking, providing year-round culinary value.
• Sustainable Gardening: Growing your own cilantro means you can enjoy a fresh, chemical-free supply, reducing your reliance on store-bought herbs and spices.

Growing Zones:
Leisure Cilantro is suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 3-11. In cooler zones, it will grow as an annual, while in warmer climates, it may bolt quickly in the summer heat. Cilantro grows best in spring and fall, as these seasons provide cooler temperatures that support leafy growth without premature bolting.

How to Use in the Garden:

• Herb Garden: Cilantro is a staple in herb gardens, offering fresh leaves for cooking or garnishing. Pair it with other herbs like parsley, basil, and thyme for a variety of flavors.
• Companion Planting: Cilantro is an excellent companion plant for vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and spinach. Its strong aroma can help repel pests, benefiting neighboring plants.
• Pollinator Garden: As cilantro flowers attract bees and butterflies, it is a great addition to any garden designed to support pollinator populations.
• Container Gardens: Cilantro is well-suited for container gardening, making it perfect for small spaces, patios, or balconies. Grow it in pots for easy access to fresh leaves right outside your door.
• Succession Planting: Because cilantro grows quickly and bolts in hot weather, succession planting (sowing new seeds every few weeks) ensures a continuous supply of fresh leaves and coriander seeds.

Conclusion:
Leisure Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) is a fantastic herb for any garden, offering both fresh, flavorful leaves and aromatic seeds for use in cooking. With 250 seeds in this packet, you can easily grow a bountiful crop of cilantro that enhances your culinary creations with its zesty, citrusy flavor. This easy-to-grow herb is perfect for gardeners of all skill levels and can be grown in gardens, containers, or even small spaces. Whether you're looking to add fresh cilantro to your salads and salsas or harvesting the coriander seeds for use in spices, this versatile herb is a valuable addition to any garden.