New Jersey’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean moderates temperatures, creating a unique planting calendar for cilantro that differs from inland states. Finding the best time to plant cilantro in New Jersey means working with two distinct windows: a cool spring season and a milder fall period. Cilantro bolts quickly in heat, so timing is everything for a steady harvest of fresh leaves.
Cilantro thrives when temperatures stay between 50°F and 85°F. In New Jersey, that sweet spot happens in early spring and again in late summer for a fall crop. If you plant too late in spring, the heat will trigger flowering and seed production, making the leaves turn bitter. The key is to plan around the last frost date in spring and the first frost date in fall.
For most of New Jersey, the last spring frost occurs between April 15 and May 1 in southern counties, and as late as May 15 in northern areas like Sussex County. Fall frosts typically arrive between October 1 and October 15 in the north, and mid-October to early November in the south. Use these dates as your anchor points for planting cilantro.
Best Time To Plant Cilantro In New Jersey
The absolute best windows are from mid-March to early May for spring, and from late July to early September for fall. Direct sowing seeds outdoors works best because cilantro has a taproot that dislikes transplanting. You can start seeds indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost, but direct sowing is simpler and more reliable.
Spring Planting Window
Start your first spring planting 2-4 weeks before the last expected frost. In southern New Jersey (Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland counties), that means planting around March 15 to April 1. In central areas (Mercer, Monmouth, Ocean counties), aim for April 1 to April 15. Northern regions (Bergen, Essex, Passaic counties) should wait until April 15 to May 1.
Cilantro seeds germinate best when soil temperatures are between 55°F and 68°F. The soil should be workable and not waterlogged. If you plant too early in cold, wet ground, seeds may rot. A light frost won’t kill mature plants, but young seedlings are vulnerable. Cover them with row cover if a hard freeze is forecast.
- Southern NJ: Plant March 15 – April 1
- Central NJ: Plant April 1 – April 15
- Northern NJ: Plant April 15 – May 1
- Succession plant every 2-3 weeks until mid-May
- Stop planting by late May to avoid heat stress
Fall Planting Window
For a fall harvest, plant cilantro 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost. This gives the plants enough time to mature before cold weather sets in. In northern NJ, plant from late July to mid-August. In central areas, aim for early August to late August. Southern regions can plant from mid-August to early September.
Fall planting often produces better quality cilantro because the cooling temperatures slow down bolting. The leaves stay tender and flavorful longer. You can even extend the harvest into November with a cold frame or row cover. Cilantro can survive light frosts, but temperatures below 25°F will kill it.
- Northern NJ: Plant July 20 – August 15
- Central NJ: Plant August 1 – August 25
- Southern NJ: Plant August 15 – September 5
- Use shade cloth if planting in late summer heat
- Water consistently to keep soil cool
Understanding New Jersey’s Climate Zones
New Jersey spans three USDA hardiness zones: 6a in the northwest, 6b and 7a in central areas, and 7b along the coast. This variety affects planting times. Coastal areas near the Atlantic Ocean have milder winters and cooler summers due to sea breezes. Inland areas experience more extreme temperatures.
For cilantro, the coastal moderation is a double-edged sword. Spring comes earlier along the shore, but summer heat can still cause bolting. Inland gardeners have a shorter spring window but can take advantage of cooler nights in fall. Knowing your specific zone helps you fine-tune your planting schedule.
Zone 6A (Northwest NJ)
This zone covers Sussex, Warren, and parts of Morris and Hunterdon counties. Last frost dates are around May 10-20. First fall frost comes early, around September 25-October 5. Spring planting should start in late April. Fall planting needs to happen by early August. Use row covers to protect plants from early frosts.
Zone 6B-7a (Central NJ)
Central areas like Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset counties have last frost around April 20-30. First fall frost is around October 5-15. Spring planting can begin in early April. Fall planting works well from early August to late August. This zone offers the longest growing season for cilantro.
Zone 7B (Coastal NJ)
Coastal counties including Atlantic, Cape May, and Ocean have last frost around April 1-15. First fall frost is around October 15-November 1. Spring planting can start in mid-March. Fall planting can extend into early September. The ocean moderates summer heat, allowing for later spring succession planting.
Step-By-Step Planting Guide
Follow these steps for a successful cilantro crop in New Jersey. The process is simple, but attention to detail makes a big difference. Cilantro grows fast, so you’ll see results in 3-4 weeks.
Step 1: Prepare The Soil
Cilantro prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Work in 2-3 inches of compost before planting. The soil pH should be between 6.2 and 6.8. Avoid heavy clay soils that stay wet, as cilantro roots can rot. Raised beds work great for drainage.
Step 2: Sow Seeds Correctly
Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 2 inches apart in rows spaced 12 inches apart. Cilantro seeds are actually fruits containing two seeds each, so you’ll get multiple plants from one seed. Thin seedlings to 6 inches apart once they reach 2 inches tall. This gives each plant room to grow.
Step 3: Water Consistently
Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Cilantro needs about 1 inch of water per week. In hot weather, water more frequently. Mulch around plants with straw or shredded leaves to retain moisture and keep roots cool. This helps delay bolting.
Step 4: Harvest Regularly
Start harvesting leaves when plants are 6 inches tall. Pick outer leaves first, leaving the center to continue growing. Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth and delays flowering. Once flower stalks appear, the leaves will lose flavor. Harvest all remaining leaves before full bolting.
Succession Planting Strategy
To have a continuous supply of cilantro, plant new seeds every 2-3 weeks during the spring window. This ensures that as one batch bolts, another is ready to harvest. In New Jersey, you can typically get 3-4 succession plantings in spring before the heat stops growth.
For fall, plant two successions: one in late July and another in mid-August. The second planting will mature as temperatures cool, providing harvests into October. With protection, you might even get leaves into November. This strategy maximizes your yield from a small space.
- Spring: Plant every 2 weeks from March to May
- Summer: Take a break during June and July
- Fall: Plant every 2 weeks from late July to early September
- Winter: Use indoor pots or cold frames for fresh leaves
Common Problems And Solutions
Even with perfect timing, cilantro can face issues. The most common problem in New Jersey is bolting, or premature flowering. This happens when temperatures exceed 85°F or when day length increases. To delay bolting, plant in partial shade during late spring. Provide afternoon shade with taller plants or shade cloth.
Pests like aphids and spider mites can attack cilantro, especially in hot weather. Use a strong spray of water to dislodge them. Avoid insecticides, as cilantro is often used fresh. Companion planting with dill or basil can help repel pests naturally.
Diseases are rare but include powdery mildew in humid conditions. Space plants for good air circulation and water at the soil level, not on the leaves. If you see white powdery spots, remove affected leaves and improve airflow. Crop rotation also helps prevent soil-borne issues.
Indoor Cilantro For Year-Round Harvest
If outdoor planting windows don’t fit your schedule, grow cilantro indoors. Use a pot at least 8 inches deep with drainage holes. Place it in a south-facing window or under grow lights for 12-14 hours daily. Indoor cilantro grows slower but can provide leaves year-round.
Plant seeds indoors any time, but remember that cilantro still bolts eventually. Start new pots every 3-4 weeks for continuous harvest. Indoor temperatures between 60-70°F are ideal. Avoid placing pots near heat vents or drafty windows.
Harvesting And Storing Cilantro
Harvest in the morning when leaves are crisp and full of flavor. Cut stems at the base, leaving at least 1 inch of growth for regrowth. You can harvest up to 3-4 times from a single plant before it bolts. Store fresh cilantro in a glass of water in the refrigerator, covering the leaves with a plastic bag.
For longer storage, freeze cilantro leaves in ice cube trays with water or olive oil. Dried cilantro loses most of its flavor, so freezing is better. You can also make cilantro pesto and freeze it in small portions. This preserves the fresh taste for months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant cilantro in New Jersey during summer?
Summer planting is not recommended because high heat causes cilantro to bolt quickly. If you must plant in summer, choose a shaded spot and water frequently. Expect a short harvest window of 2-3 weeks before the plant goes to seed.
How late can I plant cilantro in New Jersey for fall?
For fall harvest, plant no later than 6 weeks before the first expected frost. In northern NJ, that means early August. In southern areas, you can plant until early September. Later plantings may not mature before frost kills the plants.
Does cilantro need full sun in New Jersey?
Cilantro grows best in full sun during cool weather, but partial shade is better in late spring and summer. In New Jersey, afternoon shade helps delay bolting. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal for spring and fall crops.
Can I grow cilantro from cuttings in New Jersey?
Yes, but it’s less reliable than seeds. Place fresh cilantro stems in water until roots form, then transplant to soil. This works best in spring or fall. Success rate is lower than direct seeding, so use this method as a backup.
What is the best soil temperature for cilantro seeds?
Cilantro seeds germinate best when soil temperatures are between 55°F and 68°F. In New Jersey, this occurs in early spring and again in late summer. Use a soil thermometer to check before planting. Seeds may rot in soil below 50°F.
Final Tips For New Jersey Gardeners
Keep a garden journal to track your planting dates and results. Each year’s weather varies, so adjust your schedule based on actual conditions. Watch for the first signs of bolting, like feathery leaves and tall stems, and harvest immediately.
Let some plants go to seed at the end of the season. Cilantro self-seeds readily, and you might get volunteer plants next spring. This natural reseeding can give you an early start without any work. Just thin the volunteers as needed.
Remember that cilantro is a short-lived crop. Plan for multiple plantings rather than expecting one plant to produce all season. With the right timing and a little care, you can enjoy fresh cilantro from your New Jersey garden from spring through fall.