When to Plant Cilantro in Washington (2026 Guide)
When it comes to planting cilantro in Washington, understanding your local frost dates is crucial for a successful harvest. For gardeners in Zone 6b, the median last spring frost is April 9, making early spring the ideal time to sow this aromatic herb. If you're in a cooler area, like Zone 5b, your last frost might not come until May 6, so you'll need to adjust your planting schedule accordingly.
Cilantro is a versatile herb used in many cuisines, but its growth can be affected by the local climate. Washington's diverse gardening zones create unique opportunities and challenges. With a growing season of about 200 days in Zone 6b, you'll have plenty of time to cultivate cilantro. However, quick bolting can still occur in the heat of summer, making timing critical.
To ensure a bountiful harvest, you'll want to succession sow cilantro every 2–3 weeks. This will help provide continuous fresh leaves for your culinary needs. Its unique trait of bolting quickly makes it essential to plan accordingly, especially if you're in an area like Seattle or Spokane, where you may experience variations in weather later in the growing season.
Planting Schedule by USDA Zone in Washington
| Zone | Indoor start | Transplant out | Direct sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 6b | Not recommended — direct sow only | Not recommended — direct sow only | Start March 1 – April 9, ~3 weeks before April 10 | Harvest between April 26 – May 26, ~4–6 weeks after sowing |
| Zone 6a | Not recommended — direct sow only | Not recommended — direct sow only | Start March 15 – April 20, ~3 weeks before April 21 | Harvest between April 26 – May 26, ~4–6 weeks after sowing |
| Zone 5b | Not recommended — direct sow only | Not recommended — direct sow only | Start April 10 – May 6, ~3 weeks before May 7 | Harvest between May 1 – May 15, ~4–6 weeks after sowing |
Cilantro Planting Windows in Washington
- Indoor start: Cilantro cannot be started indoors — direct sowing is the only option.
- Transplant outdoors: There is no recommended transplant window, as cilantro must be directly sown in the garden.
- Harvest: You can expect to begin harvesting cilantro leaves from about April 26 in Zone 6b until early June, depending on the planting date.
Common Mistakes Growing Cilantro in Washington
- One major mistake for Washington gardeners is starting cilantro indoors. Since cilantro has a taproot that is sensitive to transplanting, it is almost always best to directly sow seeds in the garden.
- Many gardeners in Washington forget about the bolting issue with cilantro in hot summer months. If seeds are not sown at the right times, you may end up with bitter leaves and only a short harvest window.
- It's common for gardeners to underestimate the effects of Washington's coastal climate, which can lead to damp conditions that may hinder cilantro growth. Ensure adequate sunlight and drainage for optimal health.
- Gardeners in eastern Washington often struggle with heat during late spring, which can also lead to early bolting of cilantro. Be ready to plant in the cooler parts of the day or consider shade options.
- A frequent error is planting cilantro too close to dill in Washington gardens. These plants can cross-pollinate and create hybrid seeds with unpredictable flavors, so keep them spaced apart.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I'm in a cold pocket of Washington?
If you're in a colder area, such as the foothills, you may want to wait until your local last frost date. Adjust your planting schedule accordingly to ensure viable growth.
Can I still plant cilantro in May?
Yes, you can plant cilantro in May, particularly in Zone 5b, but be aware that you may have to water more frequently due to the heat that month. Aim for cooler times of the day to reduce stress on the plants.
How long does cilantro take to grow?
Cilantro typically grows to maturity in 4–6 weeks from the time of sowing. Plan to sow new seeds every few weeks for a continuous harvest that extends through the cooler parts of the growing season.
Is cilantro sensitive to frost?
Cilantro is indeed sensitive to frost and should be planted after the last frost date in your area. Paying attention to local weather forecasts can help you protect your plants during unexpected cold snaps.
What's the best way to harvest cilantro?
For the best quality, cut cilantro at soil level rather than picking individual leaves. This encourages new growth and allows for more productive harvesting over time, especially during its growing season.
Keep Learning
City guides in Washington
Other crops in Washington
Typical fall sowing window for Cilantro in Washington: August 8 – August 29.