When to Plant Coriander in Perth — Mediterranean Guide
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
The most frustrating herb in Australia. Coriander bolts to seed at the first hint of warmth, making it a cool-season-only crop in most zones. Both the leaves (cilantro) and seeds (coriander spice) are useful. Understanding its biology is the key to managing bolting - this is NOT a herb that grows like parsley. It is a rapid-lifecycle annual that wants to flower and die as fast as possible.
Current Growing Conditions
Soil temperature: 13.3°C (optimal range: 10–25°C) ✓ Ready to plant
How to Grow Coriander in Mediterranean Australia
When to Plant
Sow March-June for autumn/winter crop. Spring sowing possible in September.
- Soil
- Rich, well-drained soil with compost. Consistent moisture critical.
- pH Range
- 6.0-7.0
- Sunlight
- Full sun in cool weather. Part shade essential in warm zones to delay bolting.
- Spacing
- 5cm apart, 20cm between rows
- Watering
- Keep consistently moist at all times. Any drought stress triggers bolting. Mulch to retain moisture and keep roots cool.
Companion plants: Dill, Chervil, Parsley, Lettuce
Avoid planting near: Fennel
Mediterranean Growing Tips for Coriander
Recommended Varieties
- Slow Bolt
- Leisure
- Common coriander
Key Challenges
- Dry summers trigger bolting even if temperatures are moderate
- Water stress = instant bolt
Pro Tips
- Cool, wet winters are perfect for coriander
- Sow in autumn and harvest through winter
- Spring sowing marginal - hot northerlies trigger bolting
Harvesting Coriander
When ready: Harvest leaves once plants are 10-15cm tall. Harvest before any sign of central flower stem elongation.
How to harvest: Cut outer leaves at base, leaving central growing point. Or cut entire plant 3cm above soil for regrowth (one regrowth only). For seed: let plants bolt, flower, and set seed until brown.
Get the Full Interactive Guide
Track your garden, get real-time pest alerts, and plan around your zone's weather.
Open the planting dashboard Join Garden Buddy