Coriander Green Aroma (Coriandrum sativum).

Coriander Green Aroma (Coriandrum sativum).

Coriander, also known as Chinese Parsley and Cilantro, is a popular herb in various cuisines due to its fresh leaves and seeds. It thrives in the UK's cooler climate and can be sown and grown both indoors and outdoors. To start, sow seeds indoors from late March to April, then outdoors from May to June. For a second harvest, sow seeds again in late July to August.

Indoors, sow seeds thinly with well-draining, seed compost and cover them with a fine layer of compost. Sow seeds in a sunny or partially shaded area with well-draining, fertile soil, spacing them about 2.5 cm (1 inch) apart and 0.5 cm (0.2 inches) deep.

Transplant seedlings outdoors once the risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. Care for the plant involves regular watering, avoiding overwatering, adding organic matter mulch, and feeding with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

Coriander does not tolerate extreme heat, and grows well in temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (60°F to 75°F). Harvesting the leaves is best when the plant is about 15 cm (6 inches) tall, and seeds can be harvested when the flowers turn to brown.

Successional planting ensures a continuous supply of coriander by sowing a new batch of seeds every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Can be cut as fresh leaves. If left to grow seed, handsome insect friendly flowers make a fine spectacle in the garden.