When to Plant Cilantro in Nevada (2026 Guide)
Growing cilantro in Nevada requires an understanding of the specific frost dates for your area. For instance, in Las Vegas, the median last spring frost date is February 16, allowing for an extended planting season. Knowing when to plant is crucial, as cilantro is a cool-season herb that tends to bolt quickly when temperatures rise.
In addition to Las Vegas, Henderson shares a similar climate with a median last spring frost date of February 2. Both cities fall into USDA zones that provide ample growing days but also have their challenges when it comes to maintaining the herb's health throughout the growing season. Successful cilantro cultivation means being mindful of these unique climatic factors.
In contrast, northern Nevada cities like Reno experience a median last spring frost date of May 22, significantly shortening the frost-free season to only about 134 days. For gardeners here, timing is paramount to ensure success with cilantro. Each region in Nevada requires a tailored approach to planting, maintaining, and harvesting cilantro.
Planting Schedule by USDA Zone in Nevada
| Zone | Indoor start | Transplant out | Direct sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 7b–8a | Not recommended — direct sow only | Not recommended — direct sow only | Start February 17 – March 1, ~6–8 weeks before April 10 | April 10 – June 15, ~3–6 weeks after sowing |
| Zone 8b–9a | Not recommended — direct sow only | Not recommended — direct sow only | Start February 3 – March 1, ~6–8 weeks before April 10 | April 10 – June 20, ~3–6 weeks after sowing |
| Zone 5a | Not recommended — direct sow only | Not recommended — direct sow only | Start May 23 – June 1, ~6–8 weeks before July 10 | July 10 – September 20, ~3–6 weeks after sowing |
Cilantro Planting Windows in Nevada
- Indoor start: N/A — cilantro should only be direct sown outdoors.
- Transplant outdoors: N/A — cilantro should only be direct sown outdoors.
- Harvest: Harvesting can take place from April 10 until June 20 in the warmer zones, or from July 10 to September 20 in the cooler zone.
Common Mistakes Growing Cilantro in Nevada
- One of the common mistakes Nevada gardeners make is planting cilantro too late in the growing season. Given Reno's later frost date of May 22, waiting too long can lead to poor growth as temperatures rise.
- In southern Nevada, some gardeners may underestimate the impact of summer heat on cilantro. With bolting occurring quickly in hot weather, early February plantings are essential for success in Las Vegas.
- Ignoring the requirement for direct sowing can also lead to disappointment. Cilantro has a taproot, so any attempts to transplant may cause the plant to bolt prematurely, thus rendering the harvest less abundant.
- Another frequent mistake is overcrowding. In dense plantings, cutting at soil level to promote regrowth instead of thinning can limit airflow and encourage disease, especially in humid conditions prevalent in some areas of Nevada.
- Lastly, many assume that cilantro will continue to thrive throughout the summer. However, as temperatures soar, it’s more effective to plan for succession plantings, and leave bolted plants to flower and reseed for the following year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I'm in a cold pocket of Nevada?
If you're in a cooler area, start planning to sow cilantro after the last frost date, which could be as late as May 22 in certain communities. Pay close attention to weather changes, and do not rush into planting.
Can I still plant cilantro in May?
It depends on your location. In Reno, the last frost is as late as May 22, meaning it’s typically not safe to plant cilantro until after this date. In warmer areas like Las Vegas, earlier planting is viable.
How often should I replant cilantro?
For continuous harvest, plan for succession plantings every 2–3 weeks. This ensures a steady supply of fresh cilantro as each batch will be ready to harvest approximately 3–6 weeks after planting.
What should I do if my cilantro bolts?
If your cilantro starts to bolt, resist the urge to pull them up. Allow them to flower and set seed, as this will help attract beneficial insects and potentially provide volunteer plants next season.
Is there a way to prolong cilantro's harvest?
Using slow-bolting varieties like 'Santo' or 'Leisure' can help extend the harvesting phase of cilantro. These types can stay in leaf stage longer, thus providing a better yield before flowering.
Keep Learning
City guides in Nevada
Other crops in Nevada
Typical fall sowing window for Cilantro in Nevada: September 10 – October 1.