When to Plant Cilantro in Vermont (2026 Guide)

Growing cilantro in Vermont offers a vibrant addition to your culinary repertoire, but timing is crucial for success. With a median last frost date of May 8 in Zone 5b, gardeners must plan to get their seeds in the ground to maximize the growing season before the heat encourages bolting. The average frost-free season spans approximately 148 days, making it essential to understand how to effectively plant and harvest cilantro.

Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) thrives in cooler weather, allowing for tender leaves that are aromatic and flavorful. However, this dual-purpose herb bolting quickly during hot and long days underscores the need for thoughtful planning. In Vermont, it's wise to sow small amounts of cilantro every 2-3 weeks to ensure a consistent harvest through the cooler parts of spring and fall while avoiding early planting that may fall victim to frost.

Whether you are in Burlington or another city in Vermont, knowing when to plant cilantro not only enhances your cooking but also contributes to an eco-friendly garden. This guide will walk you through the best practices for planting cilantro, common mistakes to avoid, and how to make the most of your harvest while noting important frost dates like October 3, which marks the first expected frost of fall.

Planting Schedule by USDA Zone in Vermont

Zone	Indoor start	Transplant out	Direct sow	Harvest
Zone 5b	Not recommended — direct sow only	Not recommended — direct sow only	Sow seeds between April 15 – May 8, after the last frost date	Begin harvesting from late May to early June

Cilantro Planting Windows in Vermont

Indoor start: Not applicable, as starting cilantro indoors is not recommended in Vermont.
Transplant outdoors: Not applicable, as transplanting cilantro outdoors is not recommended in Vermont.
Harvest: Harvest cilantro from late May through early June for the best flavor and before the plants bolt.

Common Mistakes Growing Cilantro in Vermont

Many Vermont gardeners plant cilantro too late in the season, missing the important window before the onset of warm weather. By waiting until after the last frost date of May 8, you can better ensure optimal growing conditions for this cool-season herb.
A common error is attempting to transplant cilantro, which has a fragile taproot and does not thrive after being moved. Always direct sow your seeds to establish strong plants that will produce flavorful leaves before they bolt.
Vermont’s variable weather, including late spring snows, can catch novice gardeners off guard. Even though temperatures begin to warm, ensure that your planted cilantro is safe from frost before the May 8 date to avoid loss.
Ignoring spacing can lead to overcrowded cilantro plants in Vermont’s varied climates. Giving adequate room allows airflow, reducing the risk of disease and encouraging healthy, productive growth while you avoid competing plants.
Assuming that cilantro can thrive during warm summer months is another mistake. In Vermont, planting should focus on the cooler parts of the season. Regularly sowing through May and then again in late summer ensures a steady and flavorful harvest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I'm in a cold pocket of Vermont?

If you're in a cooler area, be mindful of your local microclimate and consider delaying planting until after the last frost date. It’s better to err on the side of caution to avoid potential frost damage.

Can I still plant cilantro in May?

Yes, in fact, May is a great time to plant cilantro in Vermont, just be sure to do so after May 8, when the last expected frost has passed. This will help ensure healthier plants.

How do I know when to harvest cilantro?

Begin harvesting cilantro once plants reach about 4-5 inches in height, typically from late May to early June. Ensure you harvest before they bolt to enjoy the best flavors.

Why is my cilantro bolting so fast?

Cilantro bolts quickly in hot weather or if days are unusually long. To counter this, opt for slow-bolting varieties and plant in cooler conditions for better preservation of flavor.

Should I cut or pull bolted cilantro?

When cilantro bolts, it's best to cut at the soil level instead of pulling it. Bolted plants will flower, attract beneficial insects, and produce seeds for the next planting season.