Culantro Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

Culantro is a herb that belongs to the same family as cilantro. It is popular in Latin American, Caribbean and Asian cuisines due to its unique flavor and aroma. If you are a fan of this herb, you might consider growing it in your garden. However, before you start sowing the seeds, you need to know how to store them properly, how to sow them and how to ensure their germination. In this article, we will provide you with a detailed guide on culantro plant seeds.

Storing Culantro Plant Seeds

The first step towards growing culantro is storing its seeds properly. Culantro seeds are small and black in color. They resemble the seeds of cilantro but are slightly larger. Here are the steps you need to follow for storing culantro plant seeds:

1. Harvest the seeds: Wait until the culantro plant has flowered and produced seeds. The seeds will be ready for harvesting once they have turned black and have started falling off the plant.

2. Dry the seeds: Place the harvested seeds on a clean, dry surface and let them dry naturally for a few days. Make sure that the area is well ventilated and away from direct sunlight.

3. Store the seeds: Once the seeds are completely dry, place them in an airtight container. Store the container in a cool and dark place such as a pantry or refrigerator.

Sowing Culantro Plant Seeds

The next step is sowing culantro plant seeds. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Prepare the soil: Culantro prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Add compost or aged manure to the soil to improve its quality.

2. Sow the seeds: Sow the culantro plant seeds directly into the soil, spacing them about 6 inches apart. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.

3. Water the seeds: Water the seeds immediately after sowing them. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

4. Provide shade: Culantro prefers partial shade, so provide some shade to the plants by placing a cover over them or planting them under a tree.

Germinating Culantro Plant Seeds

The final step is germinating culantro plant seeds. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Wait for germination: Culantro plant seeds usually take about 7-14 days to germinate. Keep the soil moist during this time.

2. Thin out the seedlings: Once the seedlings have grown to about 2-3 inches tall, thin them out, leaving only one plant per 6 inches of space.

3. Fertilize the plants: Culantro plants require regular fertilization to grow well. Use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.

4. Harvest the leaves: Once the plant has reached a height of about 6 inches, you can start harvesting its leaves. Cut off the outermost leaves and leave the inner ones to continue growing.

FAQ

Can I grow culantro indoors?

Yes, you can grow culantro indoors as long as it receives enough light and warmth.

How often should I water culantro plants?

Culantro plants require regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water them every 2-3 days or whenever the soil feels dry.

Can I use cilantro seeds instead of culantro seeds?

No, cilantro seeds are not a substitute for culantro seeds as they belong to different plant species.

How long does a culantro plant live?

Culantro plants are annuals that live for only one season. However, they produce seeds that can be harvested and used to grow new plants.

In conclusion, culantro is a flavorful herb that can be easily grown in your garden. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can store, sow and germinate culantro plant seeds successfully. Remember to provide them with proper care and attention throughout their growing season.