
Cilantro, also known as coriander in some parts of the world, is a versatile herb that adds a fresh, citrusy flavor to a variety of dishes. However, when cilantro flowers, it can be a cause for concern for many gardeners and cooks. The flowering of cilantro, known as “bolting,” is a natural part of the plant’s life cycle, but it can also signal the end of its culinary usefulness. In this article, we will explore what to do when cilantro flowers, offering a range of perspectives and solutions to help you make the most of this situation.
Understanding Cilantro Bolting
Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand why cilantro bolts. Bolting is a plant’s response to stress, often triggered by high temperatures, long daylight hours, or inadequate water. When cilantro bolts, it shifts its energy from leaf production to flower and seed production, which can result in a change in flavor and texture. The leaves may become more bitter, and the plant may lose its characteristic aroma.
Harvesting Cilantro Flowers
One approach to dealing with cilantro flowers is to embrace them. Cilantro flowers are edible and can be used in a variety of culinary applications. They have a milder flavor than the leaves and can be used as a garnish or added to salads for a pop of color. Additionally, the flowers can attract beneficial insects to your garden, such as bees and butterflies, which can help with pollination.
How to Use Cilantro Flowers in Cooking
- Salads: Add cilantro flowers to green salads for a unique flavor and visual appeal.
- Garnishes: Use the flowers as a garnish for soups, stews, or even cocktails.
- Infusions: Create a cilantro flower-infused oil or vinegar for a subtle herbaceous flavor.
Collecting Cilantro Seeds (Coriander)
If you allow your cilantro to flower and go to seed, you can harvest the seeds, which are known as coriander. Coriander seeds have a warm, citrusy flavor and are commonly used in spice blends, pickling, and baking. To collect the seeds, wait until the flowers have dried and turned brown. Then, cut the seed heads and place them in a paper bag to dry further. Once dry, shake the bag to release the seeds.
How to Use Coriander Seeds
- Spice Blends: Grind coriander seeds and use them in spice blends like garam masala or curry powder.
- Pickling: Add whole coriander seeds to pickling brines for a unique flavor.
- Baking: Incorporate ground coriander into bread, cookies, or cakes for a subtle citrus note.
Preventing Cilantro Bolting
If you prefer to keep your cilantro from bolting, there are several strategies you can employ to prolong its leafy stage.
Tips to Prevent Bolting
- Plant at the Right Time: Cilantro prefers cooler temperatures, so plant it in early spring or late summer to avoid the heat of summer.
- Provide Adequate Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, as dry conditions can trigger bolting.
- Use Shade Cloth: If you live in a hot climate, consider using shade cloth to protect your cilantro from intense sunlight.
- Succession Planting: Plant new cilantro seeds every few weeks to ensure a continuous supply of fresh leaves.
Using Bolted Cilantro in the Garden
Even if your cilantro has bolted, it can still serve a purpose in your garden. The flowers can attract pollinators, and the plant can be used as a green manure or compost material. Additionally, allowing some cilantro plants to bolt and go to seed can help you save seeds for future planting.
How to Use Bolted Cilantro in the Garden
- Pollinator Attraction: Allow some cilantro plants to flower to attract bees and other beneficial insects.
- Green Manure: Chop and drop bolted cilantro plants to add organic matter to your soil.
- Seed Saving: Collect seeds from bolted cilantro plants to use in future growing seasons.
Conclusion
When cilantro flowers, it doesn’t have to be the end of its usefulness. By understanding the reasons behind bolting and exploring the various ways to use cilantro flowers and seeds, you can make the most of this versatile herb. Whether you choose to harvest the flowers, collect the seeds, or prevent bolting altogether, there are plenty of options to keep cilantro a valuable part of your garden and kitchen.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I still use cilantro leaves after the plant has flowered? A: Yes, you can still use cilantro leaves after the plant has flowered, but they may have a more bitter taste. It’s best to harvest the leaves before the plant bolts for the best flavor.
Q: How do I know when cilantro is about to bolt? A: Cilantro is about to bolt when it starts to grow taller and produce flower stalks. The leaves may also become more sparse and the plant may look less bushy.
Q: Can I grow cilantro indoors to prevent bolting? A: Yes, growing cilantro indoors can help prevent bolting, especially if you can control the temperature and light conditions. However, cilantro still prefers cooler temperatures, so keep it in a cool, well-lit area.
Q: What other herbs are prone to bolting? A: Other herbs that are prone to bolting include basil, dill, and parsley. Like cilantro, these herbs can bolt in response to high temperatures or long daylight hours.