Cilantro in Zone 9a & 9b
Coriandrum sativum
When to plant cilantro in zone 9b
Zones 9a and 9b 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 | Feb 15–Feb 22 |
| Estimated harvest | Apr 6–Apr 13 (~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 9's season
Zone 9b's frost-free window runs about 293 days, from February 15 to December 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 →
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page also go to other retailers we may earn a commission from as an affiliate, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products with a genuine consensus of positive, independent reviews. See the sources cited on each item.
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 9b calendar · Full companion planting guide · Full plant profile · Plan your beds in the Garden Designer →
Pin this for later
Growing Cilantro in USDA zone 9b: when to start seeds indoors, when to direct-sow, and when to expect a harvest.
Save to Pinterest