Best Fertilizer for Coriander: Complete Guide for Thriving Herb Gardens

Understanding Coriander’s Nutritional Demands

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), also known as cilantro, is a fast-growing herb prized for its bright leaves and citrus-scented seeds. It thrives in cool weather and well-draining, fertile soil. To maximize flavor and yield, using the best fertilizer for coriander is essential. Coriander requires a steady supply of nitrogen for leaf growth, phosphorus for root development, and potassium to promote resilience and flavor depth.

The ideal fertiliser must balance these nutrients. We recommend CompleteGrow 20-20-20 All Purpose Fertiliser as the best fertilizer for coriander. Its balanced NPK ratio supports dense foliage, healthy roots, and robust flavor—making it perfect from first true leaves to pre-harvest stage.

Apply this fertiliser at 1.5g per litre of water once seedlings have two true leaves. Use every 7–10 days for outdoor beds or fortnightly for container plants. Consistent feeding helps coriander grow full and strong, rather than trending toward thin, weak stems that bolt prematurely.

Coriander grows best in soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0). Integrate organic compost at planting, but rely on balanced fertilising during the growing season. Good drainage and even moisture, combined with the right fertiliser, lead to healthy, flavorful leaves.

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Feeding Coriander for Maximum Leaf Growth and Flavor

Coriander is typically grown as a quick season annual. Whether in garden beds or pots, feeding at the right intervals ensures lush leaf production before bolting. The best fertilizer for coriander should be easy to apply, balanced, and quick-acting.

Outdoor Beds

Apply 1.5g per litre of 20-20-20 every 7–10 days
Water well after fertilising to help nutrient absorption
Supports leaf growth and delays flowering/bolting
In autumn and spring, maintain consistent feeding to extend the crop cycle

Potted Coriander

Use larger pots (10–15 cm deep) with quality potting mix
Feed every 10–14 days with 1.5g per litre of 20-20-20
Fertilising helps compensate for nutrient leaching in small containers
Flush pots monthly to avoid salt build-up and brown leaf tips

In warmer months, coriander tends to bolt. Frequent light feeding with the best fertilizer for coriander and keeping plants cool in partial shade helps delay flowering and encourages more leaf growth. After harvesting the first set of leaves, feed again to encourage a second flush.

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Troubleshooting Feeding Issues + FAQs

Even with the right fertiliser, coriander can show signs of nutrient problems. Pale, small leaves may indicate underfeeding, while burnt leaf edges can signal overfeeding or salt build-up. The best fertilizer for coriander should support steady, manageable growth and strong aroma.

Use CompleteGrow 20-20-20 to correct deficiencies quickly. If the soil seems crispy or salts appear, reduce feed strength by half and flush with plain water once a month.

FAQs: Best Fertilizer for Coriander

Q: Which fertilizer is best for coriander in pots?
Use CompleteGrow 20-20-20 at 1.5g per litre every 10–14 days. This balanced feed compensates for nutrient flushing in small containers.

Q: What if my coriander is bolting too soon?
Keep plants cool, water regularly, feed frequently with balanced fertiliser, and harvest young. This delays flowering and prolongs the harvest.

Q: Can I use only compost for coriander?
Compost is helpful but not enough alone. Use it at planting, then switch to 20-20-20 for ongoing nutrition and growth support.

Q: How do I avoid fertiliser burn?
Always dilute fertiliser, apply to moist soil, flush monthly, and never use high-strength or granular feeds directly.

Q: Can I harvest seeds after leaf harvest?
Yes—after leaf growth slows, allow a few plants to bolt, then let seeds mature. Fertiliser once at the start supports this process.

Extend Your Coriander Harvest

Coriander is a versatile and rewarding herb that responds well to consistent care. Use the CompleteGrow 20-20-20 Fertiliser as your go-to solution for nurturing strong foliage, aromatic leaves, and a lasting harvest.