Cilantro in Zone 5a & 5b
Coriandrum sativum
When to plant cilantro in zone 5b
Zones 5a and 5b 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 10–May 17 |
| Estimated harvest | Jun 29–Jul 6 (~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 5's season
Zone 5b's frost-free window runs about 148 days, from May 10 to October 5. 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 5b calendar · Full companion planting guide · Full plant profile · Plan your beds in the Garden Designer →
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Growing Cilantro in USDA zone 5b: when to start seeds indoors, when to direct-sow, and when to expect a harvest.
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