Slow Bolting Cilantro Seeds - (Coriandrum sativum)

Slow Bolting Cilantro – Finally, Cilantro That Lasts

Cilantro's bright, distinctive, citrusy notes have graced kitchens for centuries, but every gardener knows its fleeting nature. One hot spell, and those delicate leaves turn bitter, the plant bolts into seed, and it’s time to replant. Slow Bolting cilantro is a testament to the ingenuity of gardeners and plant breeders—a solution bred and selected for long-lasting flavor.

If you love the zesty burst of fresh cilantro but find yourself constantly reseeding to keep up with its quick-bolting nature,  it's time to switch things up. Our Slow Bolting variety offers the same vibrant flavor you crave with an upgrade. It resists bolting and going to seed, keeping the leaves sweet and delicious for weeks longer than standard cilantro. This means you'll get a bigger harvest of flavorful cilantro with far less effort – the perfect solution for home gardeners who just want to enjoy fresh herbs without fuss.

Details

Slow Bolting cilantro shares its quick-bolting cousins' classic vibrant green leaves and citrusy aroma but takes it to the next level. The fern-like leaves are larger, the stems sturdier,  and a hint of sweetness balances the zesty tang. Most importantly, this variety resists bolting in the summer heat, meaning you'll enjoy fresh, flavorful cilantro well beyond the usual short harvest window.

Even with better heat tolerance, a little extra help keeps them producing even longer. Strategic shading extends the harvest season, slowing the plant's tendency to bolt. Try planting your cilantro where it receives afternoon shade from taller plants, like tomatoes or squash. Even a lightweight shade cloth in the afternoon makes a difference, keeping the plants cooler and encouraging continued leaf production. In hotter climates, wider spacing is critical – improving airflow around the plants, keeping them a bit cooler, and delaying bolting

A mature Slow Bolting Cilantro plant grows 12-18 inches tall and spreads about 6-12 inches wide. Its sturdy nature means you can space plants closer together than standard cilantro, about 6-12 inches apart in rows. This variety thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade, particularly in hotter climates. For optimal growth and flavor, plant in well-drained soil amended with organic matter.

Your first harvest can begin just a few weeks after the seedlings sprout. As a cut-and-come-again herb, you can snip off leaves as needed, encouraging the plant to produce even more. 

History

Cilantro leaves a highly flavored trail through history, its journey spanning millennia and continents. One of the world's oldest recorded herbs, its seeds graced the tomb of the Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses II, a testament to its importance even beyond the realm of the living. Ancient Sanskrit texts from 1500 BC and mentions in the Bible’s Old Testament further reveal cilantro's enduring presence in diverse cultures.

Likely originating in the Mediterranean and Middle East, cilantro followed the winding paths of trade routes, its zesty flavor conquering palates across the globe. From the vibrant curries of India to the fiery salsas of Mexico, cilantro became a cornerstone of countless culinary traditions.

Beyond the kitchen, cilantro has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Healers use it to aid digestion, soothe inflammation, and even promote a sense of calm. Modern research into cilantro's potential health benefits suggests scientific support for some of these long-held beliefs may exist. Despite its origins steeped in antiquity, the Slow-Bolting variety represents a modern chapter in cilantro's story. 

Breeders carefully selected naturally bolt-resistant plants, solving the frustration gardeners have known for as long as cilantro has been grown. This advancement enables a continuous harvest throughout the season, with fewer replantings needed.

Uses

Cilantro's vibrant flavor and health benefits extend beyond its familiar roles in salsa and guacamole. Think of it as a culinary chameleon! Infuse its citrusy zest into a vibrant green pesto, perfect for tossing with pasta. Create a marinade with fresh herbs, including cilantro, to elevate grilled meats or fish. Even a simple summer salad dressing can be transformed with a handful of fresh cilantro, adding a burst of sunshine to your plate.

Remember to appreciate the power of cilantro as a garnish. A sprinkle of those delicate leaves instantly elevates dishes, their vibrant color and unique shape adding visual flair. 

As cilantro matures, its leaves develop a more robust flavor. If you're sensitive to the intense citrus flavor, harvest younger leaves for a milder flavor experience.

While typically discarded, cilantro roots have a milder, subtle flavor. They are delicious in Thai curries or soups, adding a unique depth to your dishes.

The appeal doesn't end on the plate; it’s a garden workhorse. The delicate flowers act as magnets for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, creating a haven for pollinators that supports your entire garden ecosystem. From your kitchen to your garden to the broader landscape, cilantro proves its value in countless ways.

Even the Slow Bolting variety eventually bolts, but don't toss them! Harvest the coriander seeds—a delicious spice for curries, blends, or homemade coriander powder. 

Companion Planting

Beneficial Companions – dill (repels pests), nasturtiums (distract aphids), and chamomile (attracts good bugs) for a mutually beneficial garden community.

Antagonist Pairings – Cilantro struggles when competing with carrots, parsnips, and fennel. Give them space for everyone to thrive. 

Pest and Disease Management

Keep a watchful eye for tiny aphids and whiteflies, which can gather on tender stems and leaves, sucking the sap and weakening your plants. But don't worry – a strong blast of water can dislodge these pests, while neem oil disrupts their feeding habits.  Invite ladybugs to the feast for even more protection – these beneficial predators have a voracious appetite for aphids and other soft-bodied insects.

Fungal frustrations like powdery mildew and bacterial leaf spot can also arise, so prevention is key. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering, as damp leaves become breeding grounds for disease. Diligence pays off – remove any affected leaves promptly to stop the spread. By staying vigilant and employing these simple techniques, you'll help your Slow Bolting Cilantro thrive.

Planting and Growing Tips

Cilantro thrives in well-drained, generously amended soil, like compost or aged manure. Full sun is ideal for the most robust growth, but in hotter climates, some afternoon shade will help slow down bolting and extend your harvest.  Generously sow seeds every few weeks to ensure a continuous supply of those flavorful leaves. Cilantro's vibrant flavor inspires culinary creativity, so you'll likely use it often. Finally, remember that cilantro likes consistent soil moisture, especially during hot spells, but dislikes soggy roots.  

Harvest Tips

Harvest your cilantro in the cool, early morning when the plant's aromatic oils peak for the most intense flavor. Remember to harvest frequently! Regularly pinching off young leaves encourages your plants to become bushier, yielding more leaves. 

Keep a watchful eye for flowers, as they signal a shift in the plant's energy, and the leaves will start to taste bitter. Enjoy those last few leaves, then sow fresh seeds to ensure a new crop is ready to take their place. Remember, a little cilantro goes a long way in the kitchen, so don't hesitate to share your bounty! Spread the joy of fresh herbs with friends, neighbors, and fellow gardeners. 

Learn More

• Papalo - Heat Loving Cilantro Alternative
• Chipotle-Cilantro Coleslaw
• Cilantro Freezer Pickles
• Edible Flowers From Garden to Gourmet - Heirloom Varieties for Every Kitchen

From the soil to the seed to the food you eat - we'll help you grow your best garden!