Troubleshooting
Cilantro / coriander problems — and how to fix them
Cilantro / coriander (Coriandrum sativum) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Bolting quickly
Heat trigger; sow successionally every 2-3 weeks and choose slow-bolt varieties.
Lacy ferny leaves replacing the round ones
Bolting is starting — pinch flower stems or let it set seed for coriander.
Yellow seedlings
Damping-off; sow into clean mix and avoid overwatering.
Poor germination
Old seed; coriander seed loses viability after 2 years.
Prevent cilantro / coriander problems before they start
Most cilantro / coriander issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Cilantro / coriander problems — FAQ
Why is my cilantro / coriander bolting quickly?
Heat trigger; sow successionally every 2-3 weeks and choose slow-bolt varieties.
Why is my cilantro / coriander lacy ferny leaves replacing the round ones?
Bolting is starting — pinch flower stems or let it set seed for coriander.
Why is my cilantro / coriander yellow seedlings?
Damping-off; sow into clean mix and avoid overwatering.
Why is my cilantro / coriander poor germination?
Old seed; coriander seed loses viability after 2 years.