If you’ve ever let your cilantro go to flower and wondered what comes next, good news, you’re growing your own coriander. Once cilantro bolts (especially in summer heat), it sends up delicate white flowers, that then form green seed pods that dry into the aromatic spice you know from your pantry. Don’t toss the plant—harvest the seeds!
In this post, I’ll walk you through:
What happens when Cilantro flowers.
How to collect coriander seeds step-by-step.
What to do with the seeds (in the kitchen + garden).
How to store them—and how long they last.
My YouTube video with the full harvest process.
What Happens When Cilantro Flowers?
Cilantro is an annual herb that bolts (goes to seed) very quickly in warm temperatures. When it bolts, it sends up tall stalks topped with small white flowers, this is the first step to coriander.
After flowering, the plant forms green seed pods that eventually dry and turn brown. These are coriander seeds, and yes—you can use them!
Step-by-Step: How to Harvest Coriander Seeds
1. Wait for the Right Time
Let the flowers bloom fully and allow the green pods to form. The pods are ready to harvest when they turn light brown and feel dry to the touch.
2. Cut the Stalks
Use garden shears to snip the stalks low, just above the base of the plant.
3. Bundle & Dry
Tie 5–10 stalks together and hang them upside down in a dry, airy place (garage, shed, or pantry) for 1–2 weeks. Place a paper bag over the top to catch falling seeds.
4. Strip the Seeds
Once fully dry, gently roll the seed heads between your fingers or inside a paper bag to release the coriander seeds.
5. Clean & Sort
Remove any plant debris, then spread the seeds on a tray to ensure they’re fully dry before storing.
What to Do with Coriander Seeds
Coriander seeds are versatile and fragrant. Here’s how you can use them:
In the Kitchen:
- Toast and grind for spice blends (curry, garam masala, taco seasoning)
- Add whole seeds to pickling brines
- Use in homemade breads, marinades, or roasted veggie dishes
- Simmer in soups and stews for a warm, citrusy flavor
In the Garden:
- Save for next season. Let some dry completely and store as seeds for planting next spring.
- Scatter in fall. Coriander can self-seed, especially in mild climates.
How to Store Coriander Seeds
- Keep seeds in an airtight glass jar or brown paper envelope
- These are my go-to Spice Organizing Jars. Love the simplicity of the labeling!
- Store in a cool, dark, dry place
- Label with the harvest date
How Long Do They Last?
- For cooking: up to 1 year for best flavor
- For planting: 2–3 years if stored properly (germination rates slowly decline)
🎥 Watch the Full Process on YouTube
👉 Watch Now: How to Harvest Cilantro + Collect Coriander Seeds
💬 Let’s Chat
Have you tried harvesting your own coriander?
What’s your favorite way to use it?
Comment below or tag me, I’d love to see what you’re growing!
