The scientific name of coriander is Coriandrum sativum. Growing Coriander at home is very easy. It is beneficial for our health. It is used in making many types of dishes. We get many kinds of nutrients from fresh coriander grown at home. Let us know how it can be grown at home and what things should be kept in mind while growing it.
Scientific Name: Coriandrum sativum
Steps to Grow Coriander at Home
Step 1: Choose your growing method
- Coriander can be grown in both soil and water. In soil, you can grow it in garden beds or pots.
- Hydroponically, it is grown in water. For beginners, it is easiest to grow it in soil.
Step 2: Choose the right growing spot
- Coriander loves sunlight, but in hot climates, too much direct sunlight can cause it to go to seed, so choose a spot that gets 4-6 hours of sun and some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Step 3: Collect the seeds
- You can get coriander seeds from a garden store or you can also use whole coriander seeds from your kitchen.
- When using kitchen seeds, separate the seed husk and crush them gently for proper germination.
Step 4: Prepare the soil for planting
- Coriander grows best in well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
- Mix garden soil with compost or potting mix. Make sure the soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.2-6.8.
Step 5: Sow the seeds
- Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before sowing. This helps in faster germination.
- Make shallow rows in the soil. About 0.5 cm deep. Sow the seeds in these rows at a distance of about 5-7 cm and cover them lightly with soil.
- After this, pour a little water on top so that the soil becomes moist.
Step 6: Water daily for proper germination
- Keep the soil constantly moist but do not let it get waterlogged. Water the plant daily in warm climates but do not water it frequently in cold weather.
- The seeds usually germinate within 7-14 days of sowing. Keep the surrounding area warm and moist for faster germination.
Step 7: Take good care and maintain the plant
- When the plants are 2-3 inches tall, thin them to a distance of about 6-8 cm for proper growth.
- Add a mild organic fertilizer (like compost tea) once a month to maintain good growth but avoid over-fertilizing as it may reduce leaf production.
- Regularly remove weeds around the plants. This will help in proper growth of the plants.
Step 8: Control Pests
- Spray them lightly with neem oil to protect them from common pests like aphids or whiteflies.
- Avoid overwatering the plants and ensure good air flow around the plants. This will prevent any fungal infections.
Step 9: Harvesting the Coriander Plant
- Once the plant is 4-6 weeks old, you can harvest the leaves and use them in a variety of recipes.
- If you want to grow the plant for seeds, allow the plant to flower and wait for the flowers to dry up and turn into seeds. Then, collect the seeds and use them for cooking or to grow new plants.
