Herbs are often used in spicy foods to give them distinct flavor and taste. Cilantro Leaves, part of the plant that belongs to parsley family and commonly found in many Asian, Mexican, and Tex-Mex dishes, are refreshing foils for the fiery recipes of countries mentioned. These are also the leaves that you often see in Chinese stir-fry and Vietnamese noodles. Meanwhile, coriander, the seeds of the plant, is great for seasoning while the dainty white flowers of the plant are edible garnishments for sorbets and salads.

For many, it is an endeavor to grow a cilantro plant. The plant requires proper attention and care and if given its needed caring, harvesting the leaves and seeds become easy. If you want to Grow Cilantro on your backyard, understand that these plants grow and seed very quickly. Its planting and growing season is normally during spring and fall. The seeds should be planted a few inches apart in area where there is enough sun during the morning and a shade during the afternoon. It is advised to keep the plants not far apart from each other so that when they grow, they will be able to shade the roots keeping them cooler. Keep the soil well-drained and moist to assure optimum growth of the plants. Add a bit of mulch or compost to the bed for added nutrients. Doing this also adds an extra layer of protection for the roots.

You know that the leaves are ready to be harvested when the plant is about six inches tall. Pick up the leaves that are further from the central stalk. This will allow the smaller leaves to grow and mature. Meanwhile, if you want to harvest the coriander seeds, cut only the leaves when needed. Meanwhile, trim off the flower heads if you do not want the seeds. The coriander starts sprouting in seven to 10 days. Now, you can begin the weekly harvest of the plants. To prolong the growth of the leaves, you should trim off the flower heads when the plant begins to flower. Usually, you will be able to harvest the leaves two or three times before the plants begin to seed.

Once you learn How to Grow Cilantro and how to harvest them, make good use of it especially the leaves. Use them fresh on your dishes for they lose their flavour when they are not used immediately. When you suspect the plants of being infested with bugs or disease, discard the plants immediately and plant new ones.