Cilantro is a fast-growing cool-season herb loved for its fresh, citrusy flavor in salsa, tacos, curries, rice bowls, chutneys, soups, and salads. It grows quickly in Iowa, but it prefers cooler weather and can bolt when summer heat arrives.

At Holub Greenhouses in Ames, Iowa, gardeners can find cilantro plants and local advice for growing herbs in spring and fall.

Why do Iowa gardeners grow cilantro?

Cilantro herb starters in the herb and vegetable section of Holub Greenhouses.Cilantro is a kitchen favorite for gardeners who enjoy fresh flavor close at hand. It grows well in containers, raised beds, and herb gardens when planted during cooler parts of the season.

Gardeners choose cilantro because it is:

  • Fast-growing and easy to harvest
  • Excellent for salsa, tacos, curries, and fresh garnishes
  • Well suited for spring and fall planting
  • Useful in containers and raised beds
  • Great for succession planting

When should you plant cilantro in Iowa?

Cilantro grows best in early spring or early fall. It prefers cool weather and often bolts quickly during hot summer conditions.

For a longer harvest, plant cilantro in a spot with morning sun and some afternoon protection, or plant smaller batches every couple of weeks during cool seasons.

How do you grow cilantro successfully?

Give cilantro well-drained soil, regular moisture, and cool growing conditions. Harvest outer leaves often while the plant is young and tender.

Cilantro care basics:

  • Sun: Full sun in cool weather; light afternoon shade in warmer weather
  • Soil: Well-drained garden soil or potting mix
  • Water: Keep evenly moist
  • Harvest: Snip leaves often
  • Best seasons: Spring and fall
  • Note: Heat can cause bolting

What plants pair well with cilantro?

Cilantro fits nicely into cool-season herb and vegetable gardens. It also works well near salsa garden plants in spring.

Good planting partners include:

  • Lettuce
  • Kale
  • Cabbage
  • Chives
  • Onions
  • Peppers
  • Tomatoes
  • Dill

Where can you buy cilantro plants in Ames, Iowa?

Visit Holub Greenhouses in Ames for cilantro starts, vegetable starts, containers, and expert help choosing the right planting window for central Iowa vegetable and herb gardens.

Visit Us at Holub Greenhouses in ames

Visit Holub Greenhouses in Ames for quality cilantro plants, herb starts, vegetable starts, annual and perennial flowers, indoor plants, and garden supplies.

For decades, Holub Greenhouses has helped Ames and central Iowa gardeners grow beautiful gardens and fresh, flavorful herb containers. Whether you are planting cilantro for salsa, tacos, curries, or a cool-season herb bed, our team is always here with helpful planting and care advice.

Stop by Holub Greenhouses for cilantro plants and local garden guidance.