When to Plant Cilantro in Wisconsin (2026 Guide)
If you're looking to grow cilantro in Wisconsin, it’s essential to understand the right timing based on your local frost dates. In Zone 6a, the median last spring frost occurs on April 25. This means that you should plan your planting schedule accordingly to ensure a bountiful harvest of this aromatic herb.
Cilantro thrives in cooler temperatures, but with a frost-free season of approximately 177 days in Zone 6a, and notably shorter in Zones 5b and 5a, timing is everything. In Zone 5b, the last frost is around May 6, while in Zone 5a, it can be as late as May 19. These dates dictate when you can safely direct sow your seeds.
Cilantro can be sensitive to heat, bolting quickly as the weather warms. Thus, knowing the right sowing window is vital for a healthy crop. By strategically sowing every 2-3 weeks in the cooler seasons, you'll enjoy a continuous harvest of this versatile herb. Let’s take a detailed look at the planting guidelines specific to each zone found in Wisconsin.
Planting Schedule by USDA Zone in Wisconsin
| Zone | Indoor start | Transplant out | Direct sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 6a | Not recommended — direct sow only | Not recommended — direct sow only | Start March 1 – April 10 for best results | May 15 – June 15, then again in September |
| Zone 5b | Not recommended — direct sow only | Not recommended — direct sow only | Start April 15 – May 6 for best results | June 1 – July 1, then again in September |
| Zone 5a | Not recommended — direct sow only | Not recommended — direct sow only | Start April 15 – May 19 for best results | June 15 – July 15, then again in September |
Cilantro Planting Windows in Wisconsin
- Indoor start: For growing cilantro, indoor starting is not recommended; direct sowing is preferred.
- Transplant outdoors: There is no outdoor transplanting for cilantro; instead, sow seeds directly into the ground between March 1 and May 19, depending on your zone.
- Harvest: You can expect to harvest cilantro from June 1 to July 15, and again after new plantings in the cooler fall months.
Common Mistakes Growing Cilantro in Wisconsin
- Many gardeners in Wisconsin underestimate the risk of late frosts. Even when planting after the last expected frost date, keep an eye on weather conditions and be prepared to cover plants if a cold snap is predicted.
- Failing to space cilantro correctly can lead to overcrowding. In Wisconsin's humid summers, this can cause poor air circulation, leading to disease issues. Be sure to give each plant enough room to thrive.
- Some gardeners mistakenly try to transplant cilantro or start seeds indoors, thinking that nurturing young plants will give them a head start. However, cilantro has a taproot, making it very sensitive to transplant shock, leading to bolting before it can produce a harvest.
- Wisconsin's summer heat can cause cilantro to bolt prematurely. Gardeners might be unprepared for how quickly this can happen. Pay special attention to temperature fluctuations and be ready to plant successive crops.
- Many people assume that cilantro will flourish in any soil. Wisconsin’s clay or alkaline soils can lead to poor growth if not properly amended. Testing soil pH and enriching it with organic material is key for a successful cilantro garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still plant cilantro in late May?
Yes, you can plant cilantro in late May, but keep in mind that if you're in a cooler region of Wisconsin, you might risk lower yield if planting too late. Aim to plant before the late spring heat kicks in.
What if I'm in a cold pocket of Wisconsin?
If you're in a colder area, consider delaying planting until closer to June when the soil warms up. You could also try covering your seedbeds to retain warmth or planting in raised beds that heat up faster.
How can I prevent cilantro from bolting?
To prevent premature bolting, ensure your cilantro is sown in cooler temperatures, ideally in early spring or fall. Choose slow-bolting varieties and make successions every few weeks to maintain a steady supply.
What's the best way to harvest cilantro?
The best way to harvest cilantro is to cut entire plants at soil level when they are around 4-5 inches tall rather than picking individual leaves, allowing lower leaves to continue growing for more harvests.
Does cilantro require full sun?
Yes, cilantro does best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. If you are planting in the heat of summer, providing some afternoon shade may extend your growing period and prevent bolting.
Keep Learning
City guides in Wisconsin
Other crops in Wisconsin
Typical fall sowing window for Cilantro in Wisconsin: July 21 – August 11.