GardenHow to grow coriander (dhania)
धनिया. When to sow it in each part of India, how deep, how far apart, what size of pot, and what to watch for.
When to sow
North and central plainsSeptember to February
South and coastal IndiaJune and July, October and November
HillsMarch to August
Green months are the usual sowing or planting time. Dates shift by a few weeks from place to place.
How to sow and grow
- Method
- Sow the seed straight where the plant will grow.
- Depth
- 1 cm
- Spacing
- Rows 15 cm apart
- In a pot
- A wide tray or pot 15 to 20 cm deep
- Sprouts in
- 7 to 14 days
- Harvest
- 30 to 45 days for leaves
- Sun
- Light shade is fine; 3 to 4 hours of sun are enough
Tips from the garden
- Each round "seed" holds two seeds. Rub them gently under a rolling pin or a slipper to split them before sowing.
- Coriander hates being moved. Always sow it where it will grow.
- In summer it runs to flower quickly. Sow in light shade and sow a fresh pot every three weeks.
What can go wrong
Patchy germination is the usual complaint. Use fresh seed, split it, keep it moist and wait two weeks.
Sown around the same time
New to growing from seed? Read how to sow seeds and the balcony and terrace garden guide.
Questions people ask
When is coriander sown in north India?
In the plains of north and central India, the usual sowing or planting months for coriander are September to February.
How long does coriander take to grow?
Usually 30 to 45 days for leaves.
Can coriander be grown in a pot?
Yes. A wide tray or pot 15 to 20 cm deep.