Why Your Cilantro Bolted in 3 Weeks
Cilantro bolts above 75°F. If yours bolted in 3 weeks, it was too hot. Plant in cool weather, provide afternoon shade, and succession plant.
Cilantro is the fastest-bolting herb. You can’t stop it, but you can delay it.
Why It Bolts
- Heat. Above 75°F, cilantro switches to reproduction.
- Long days. 14+ hours of light triggers bolting.
- Stress. Dry soil, transplant shock.
How to Slow It
- Plant in cool weather. Spring or fall.
- Afternoon shade. Reduces heat stress.
- Consistent moisture.
- Succession plant every 2-3 weeks.
- Slow-bolt varieties.
What to Do If It Bolts
- Leaves get bitter
- Harvest seeds (coriander)
- Let some flower for beneficial insects
Common Questions
Can I still eat bolted cilantro? Leaves are bitter. Seeds are usable.
Does bolted cilantro come back? Annual. It dies after seeding.
Can I prevent bolting? Delay, not prevent.
What about indoors? Cool room helps.
When is the best time to plant? Early spring or fall.
What if I live in a hot climate? Plant in fall. Grow indoors in summer.