Cilantro in Zone 10a & 10b
Coriandrum sativum
When to plant cilantro in zone 10b
Zones 10a and 10b share the same average frost dates in our data, so this page covers both.
Method: Direct sow: Direct-sow outside. Cilantro doesn't transplant well, or doesn't need the extra time indoors.
| Window | Fall window |
|---|---|
| Start indoors | Not typically started indoors |
| Direct sow / transplant outside | Oct–Jan |
| Estimated harvest | Nov 20–Mar 22 '27 (~50 days after direct-sowing) |
Spacing: 9 per square foot (square-foot-gardening spacing). Mature height: 1-2 ft.
Zone 10b dates sourced from growinginthegarden.com.
Cilantro is a short-lived crop in most climates: it wants cool weather, grows fast, and bolts to flower the moment heat sets in, converting its leaves' flavor from bright and citrusy to soapy and thin almost overnight.
How cilantro fits zone 10's season
Zone 10b's frost-free window runs about 324 days, from January 30 to December 20. Cilantro needs about 50 days from sowing to first harvest.
Good companions
- Spinach: Both are cool-season, non-competing companions.
Where to buy cilantro seeds
See why we recommend these suppliers →
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See it growing
Search YouTube for "growing cilantro" videos → (a live search, not a hand-picked video; results vary and aren't vetted by us)
← Back to the full zone 10b calendar · Full companion planting guide · Full plant profile · Plan your beds in the Garden Designer →
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Growing Cilantro in USDA zone 10b: when to start seeds indoors, when to direct-sow, and when to expect a harvest.
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