Cilantro in Zone 4a & 4b
Coriandrum sativum
When to plant cilantro in zone 4b
Zones 4a and 4b 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.
| Start indoors | Not typically started indoors |
|---|---|
| Direct sow / transplant outside | May 15–May 22 |
| Estimated harvest | Jul 4–Jul 11 (~50 days after direct-sowing) |
Spacing: 9 per square foot (square-foot-gardening spacing). Mature height: 1-2 ft.
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 4's season
Zone 4b's frost-free window runs about 128 days, from May 15 to September 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 4b calendar · Full companion planting guide · Full plant profile · Plan your beds in the Garden Designer →
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Growing Cilantro in USDA zone 4b: when to start seeds indoors, when to direct-sow, and when to expect a harvest.
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