Fertilizer for Cilantro: NPK Guide and Application Rates
Cilantro is a fast-growing, cool-season herb that bolts (goes to seed) quickly in warm weather. Nitrogen-forward fertilization maximizes the leaf harvest window before bolting becomes inevitable. Succession planting every 2-3 weeks is the most reliable strategy for a continuous supply.
Quick Reference
What NPK Ratio is Best for Cilantro?
The recommended NPK ratio for cilantro is 10-10-10. A balanced 10-10-10 feeds all three macronutrients equally, which works well when soil tests show no single deficiency.
Cilantro NPK needs shift at each growth stage. Light balanced feeding for seedlings during the Seedling phase, then reduce feeding if bolting occurs; harvest coriander seeds instead once flowering begins.
NPK by Growth Stage for Cilantro
| Growth Stage | NPK Ratio | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Seedling | 10N 10P 10K N 10% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 10% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 10% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Light balanced feeding for seedlings |
| Vegetative | 15N 5P 5K N 15% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 5% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 5% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Nitrogen-forward to maximize leaf production before bolting |
| Flowering | 5N 5P 5K N 5% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 5% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 5% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Reduce feeding if bolting occurs; harvest coriander seeds instead |
| Fruiting | 0N 0P 0K N 0% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 0% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 0% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | No feeding once plant is producing seeds |
When Should You Fertilize Cilantro?
In zone 3, start fertilizing cilantro in May. In zone 10, begin as early as January. Apply every 3 weeks through the growing season.
Which Zones Can Grow Cilantro?
Cilantro grows in USDA zones 3 through 10, spanning a 8-zone range.
Fertilization Start by Zone
| Zone | Start Month |
|---|---|
| Zone 3 | May |
| Zone 4 | April |
| Zone 5 | April |
| Zone 6 | March |
| Zone 7 | February |
| Zone 8 | February |
| Zone 9 | January |
| Zone 10 | January |
What Are the Best Fertilizer Products for Cilantro?
Look for products with an NPK close to 10-10-10. Espoma Garden-tone is the most popular choice among home gardeners for cilantro.
- Espoma Garden-tone
- Neptune's Harvest Fish Fertilizer
- Miracle-Gro Performance Organics Edibles
Prices vary by retailer and region. Check current pricing before purchasing.
Container and Raised Bed Adjustments for Cilantro
Container cilantro needs feeding every 2-3 weeks with dilute liquid fertilizer; succession sow every 2 weeks for continuous supply
Common Fertilizing Mistakes with Cilantro
- Planting a single sowing and expecting a season-long harvest; cilantro bolts in 4-6 weeks
- Full sun in summer causes rapid bolting that no amount of fertilizer can prevent
- Transplanting cilantro damages the taproot and triggers premature bolting
Tips for Fertilizing Cilantro
- Succession sow every 2-3 weeks from early spring through fall for continuous harvest
- Plant in partial shade during warm months to delay bolting by several weeks
- Harvest by cutting outer leaves first rather than pulling entire plants
Organic Fertilizer Alternatives for Cilantro
Sources
Source:Clemson University ExtensionLast updated: