How to grow cilantro from cuttings – 3 simple steps to get a new citrusy herb for free

The best hack to getting more plants for free is propagating. There are a few methods to multiply plants and growing cilantro from cuttings is certainly worth a go. It only requires a few simple steps.

Growing cilantro is already an easy process, as this fast-growing herb is extremely low-maintenance once established. Growing cilantro from cuttings can be a little bit trickier, but it can reward you with a brand new plant to harvest from, allowing you to get more out of your original plant.

Here, we talk you through the three steps to grow cilantro from cuttings successfully.

3 easy steps to grow cilantro from cuttings

Arguably, it's easier to propagate cilantro from seed which you can do by harvesting coriander seeds and planting them in a seed tray (like this from Amazon). However, it's worth trying to grow cilantro from cuttings when already harvesting cilantro.

'You can start growing new cilantro plants in a jar of water on the windowsill. It is a way to get new herb plants by simply taking a few extra stems each time you harvest cilantro to use for any recipes,' says Homes & Gardens Gardens Content Editor Drew Swainston.

Here's how to do it.

1. Take stem cuttings

The first place to start with this propagation method is taking plant cuttings from your cilantro.

You want to ensure your cilantro cuttings are from healthy stems and between 4-6 inches long with a few sets of leaves on them. You can take a few cuttings in one go, but make sure to follow the one third pruning rule, as to not shock the plant and stunt growth.

Using herb scissors (from Amazon) will ensure you don't cause damage to your plant by making clean cuts.

At this point, it's important to 'clean up' the cuttings ready for rooting. This involves removing the bottom leaves which will otherwise end up submerged in water and rot.

2. Place cuttings in a jar of water

To grow cilantro form cuttings, it's best to use the water propagation technique. All you will need is a clear jar (like these mason jars from Walmart) or a propagation station (like this beautiful propagation station from Amazon).

Fill the jar with water and place the cilantro cuttings inside.

'The bottom of the stems should be submerged in at least two inches of room-temperature water,' Drew advises.

'Put this glass in a bright spot to get lots of indirect sunlight, but not direct sun, which risks leaf scorching the plants,' he adds.

If you're struggling to find a suitable spot for your cilantro cuttings, you can use tools to speed up propagation. This includes a heat mat (from Amazon) and grow light (from Amazon), which provide sufficient warmth and light for root development.

Drew Swainston

Drew qualified as a journalist and wrote for many websites and publications, before studying for a horticulture qualification. He worked as a professional gardener for several years, specializing in kitchen gardening. He's now bringing his expertise and passion to Homes & Gardens as a member of our team. 

3. Regularly refresh the water

The key to success with growing cilantro from cuttings is avoiding water propagation mistakes.

'To keep the cuttings healthy, change the water at least every two days,' Drew says.

Refreshening the water regularly will remove bacteria and reduce pest problems, aiding the growth of the cuttings' roots.

'Keep your eyes peeled for the first white roots to appear at the bottom of the stems,' Drew says. 'Once these roots reach two inches, transfer the cutting into a pot filled with a quality, well-draining potting mix (from Amazon),' he adds.

FAQs

How long does it take to grow cilantro from cuttings?

Growing cilantro from cuttings requires some patience. You can expect roots to develop after a few weeks and will likely be harvesting from your new cilantro plant several weeks after that. The good news is cilantro will keep growing as you harvest it because it's a cut-and-come-again herb.

Once you have your new cilantro plant, make sure to harvest it correctly. Our guide to pruning cilantro so it keeps growing reveals the secrets to maximizing your harvest from one plant.

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