Cilantro is a versatile herb with a distinctive flavor, commonly used in various cuisines worldwide. If you’re a cilantro enthusiast, you know how frustrating it can be when this herb bolts and goes to seed, effectively ending your fresh cilantro supply. But here’s the good news: you can easily save cilantro seeds (also known as coriander seeds) to ensure a continuous harvest. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of collecting and saving cilantro seeds, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful herb year-round.
Why Save Cilantro (Coriander) Seeds?
Cilantro plants are notorious for bolting quickly, especially in warm weather. When they bolt, they produce delicate white flowers that eventually turn into seeds. By saving these seeds, you can:
- Ensure a continuous supply: Once you save cilantro seeds, you can plant them whenever you like, allowing you to enjoy fresh cilantro throughout the year.
- Cost-effective: Saving cilantro seeds means you won’t have to purchase new plants or seeds repeatedly.
- Preserve genetic diversity: Saving your cilantro seeds can help maintain local varieties and preserve the genetic diversity of this herb.
Let’s dive into the steps for saving cilantro (coriander) seeds.
Step 1: Allow Cilantro to Bolt
The first step in saving cilantro seeds is to allow the plant to bolt naturally. Bolting is the process where the cilantro plant produces a tall flower stalk, and the flowers eventually turn into seeds. This typically occurs in the plant’s second year of growth or during the hot summer months.
Step 2: Monitor the Seed Development
Keep a close eye on your cilantro plants as they bolt. You’ll notice the formation of small white or light pink flowers. As these flowers mature, they will turn into seeds. Be patient, as this process may take a few weeks.
Step 3: Harvest the Seeds
Once the cilantro flowers have dried up and started to form seeds, it’s time to harvest them. Here’s what you should do:
- Gently snip off the seed heads from the plant, using scissors or pruning shears.
- Place the seed heads in a paper bag or a bowl to catch any seeds that may fall during the process.
- Allow the seed heads to dry completely in a cool, dry place. This usually takes a couple of weeks.
Step 4: Threshing and Cleaning
Once the seed heads are thoroughly dried, it’s time to remove the seeds. Here’s how:
- Hold a seed head over a clean, dry bowl and rub it between your fingers. This will help separate the seeds from the husks.
- Carefully blow away any chaff or remaining plant material, leaving only the seeds in the bowl.
Step 5: Storage
To store your cilantro seeds properly:
- Place the seeds in an airtight container, like a small glass jar or a seed envelope.
- Label the container with the date of harvest and the cilantro variety, if known.
- Store the container in a cool, dark, and dry place, like a pantry or a refrigerator. Properly stored cilantro seeds can remain viable for several years.
Saving cilantro seeds is a simple yet rewarding process that can ensure a continuous supply of fresh cilantro for your culinary endeavors. By allowing your cilantro plants to bolt, harvesting the seeds, and storing them properly, you can enjoy the unique flavor of cilantro year-round. Plus, you’ll be doing your part to maintain the diversity of this beloved herb. Happy cilantro seed saving!
