How to grow Coriander in Australia
Sow coriander direct where it is to grow in full sun to part shade in free-draining soil, as it resents transplanting and bolts when disturbed. Keep it cool and evenly watered to slow bolting in heat.
At a glance
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Sun: Part shade
- Water: 3 litres a week, watered every 2 days
- Spacing: 15 cm
- Time to harvest: 50 days
- Time to germinate: 10 days
- Soil pH: 6 to 7
- Frost tolerance: Half hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | March to August | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | March to August | |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | March to August | |
| Melbourne & Victoria | March to September | Sow Mar to Sep (cool season preferred). Bolt-resistant in Melbourne winter; extend vs SEQ. |
| Adelaide & SA | March to August | Mediterranean: avoid sowing Sep to Feb. Coriander bolts above 25°C; thrive Mar to Aug. |
| Perth & WA | March to August | Mediterranean: avoid sowing Sep to Feb. Coriander bolts above 25°C; thrive Mar to Aug. |
| Tasmania | September to March | Sow Sep to Mar. Cool summers mean far less bolting than the mainland. Coriander actually works here. |
| Canberra & ACT | February to April, September and October | Sow Feb to Apr or Sep to Oct. Bolts fast in summer heat; winter soil too cold to germinate. |
| North Queensland | May to September | Dry season main window May to Sep. Coriander bolts in wet season heat. |
| Darwin & Top End | May to September | Dry season main window May to Sep. Coriander bolts in wet season heat. |
Companion planting
Good companions
Avoid planting near
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Snip outer leaves while plants are young and lush, taking from the base. Cut before it bolts; for seed, let it flower and collect the dried round seeds.
Storage
Fridge with stems in water, covered with a bag, up to 1 week.