How to Grow Coriander in Water Easily?

Coriander, also known as cilantro or Chinese parsley, is an aromatic herb that is frequently used to add flavor to various cuisines around the world. All parts of the coriander plant are edible, but its fresh leaves and dried seeds are most commonly used in cooking. Coriander is easy to grow indoors, and one of the most convenient ways to grow it is in water. Growing coriander in water is an excellent option for gardeners living in apartments or homes without yards. When grown in water, coriander grows quickly, is easy to maintain, and can be grown in small spaces.

Overview of Coriander

Benefits of Growing Coriander in Water

Quick Growth

Coriander grows rapidly when grown hydroponically in water. The seeds germinate quickly, often in just 3-7 days. The continuous presence of water promotes faster growth right from germination.

Growing in water provides optimal moisture and nutrients to the plant roots at all times, fueling vigorous growth. As a result, the leaves can be harvested in just 2-3 weeks after sowing the seeds.

The quick harvest allows a steady supply of fresh coriander leaves in a short period of time. In comparison, coriander grown in soil can take up to 4-6 weeks before harvest. So the key advantage is that growing coriander in water results in a much quicker harvest compared to conventional soil cultivation.

Easy to Maintain

Growing coriander hydroponically requires very little maintenance compared to growing it in soil. Since the roots are immersed in water, there is no need to regularly water the plants.

The water provides a constant supply of moisture and nutrients, eliminating the need to fertilize as well. There is no soil that needs checking for proper drainage or pH. Diseases and pests are less likely in a hydroponic system.

The only maintenance required is changing the water daily and ensuring adequate lighting. The effortless maintenance makes coriander grown in water ideal for beginner gardeners or busy households.

Overall, the minimal maintenance requirements make coriander easy to grow hydroponically even for those new to gardening.

Ideal for Small Spaces

Hydroponic systems do not require large beds or containers for planting coriander. The compact nature of coriander plants means they can be grown in relatively small containers that can fit on kitchen counters, windowsills, or balconies.

Since the focus is on the leafy parts rather than the roots, the plants don’t need a lot of depth for root establishment. This makes coriander perfectly suited for small urban homes or apartments with limited space.

The small footprint of the hydroponic setup allows fresh coriander to be grown indoors or on patios. For city dwellers with no access to backyards, growing coriander easily in water is an excellent option to enjoy fresh herbs within confined spaces.

How to Grow Coriander in Water

Growing coriander in water involves just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Selecting the Containers

• Use clear glass jars, drinking glasses or plastic containers to grow coriander hydroponically.
• Containers should be thoroughly cleaned and transparent to allow observing root development.
• Aim for containers that are at least 5 inches deep to accommodate the seedlings’ roots.
• Shallow containers like plates or bowls are not suitable as they provide insufficient root depth.
• Mason jars, large glasses, plastic buckets or storage containers all work well as long as they are transparent and provide adequate depth.
• Make sure the container you select has straight sides for ease of water change and cleaning.
• Choosing the right transparent, clean and deep container is key for growing coriander successfully in water.

Step 2: Preparing the Seeds before growing in water

• Take some fresh coriander seeds that are designated for cultivation.
• Wrap the seeds in a wet paper towel or cloth napkin.
• Place the wrapped seeds in a sealed plastic bag.
• Let the bag sit overnight or for 12-24 hours.
• This initiates germination as the warm, moist conditions spur sprouting.
• Checking the seeds the next day will reveal swelling or splits in the seed coat.
• Pre-germinating kickstarts the growth process before transferring to water.
• Getting the seeds ready in this simple way sets the stage for quicker, uniform germination.

Step 3: Starting the Seeds in Water

• Fill the selected container with room temperature water.
• Place the pre-germinated coriander seeds just above the waterline.
• Make sure the seeds are not fully submerged, only the bottom touches water.
• Lightly cover the mouth of the container with plastic wrap.
• Position the container in bright, indirect light.
• The plastic wrap keeps moisture in while allowing air exchange.
• The seeds will sprout within 3-7 days under optimal conditions.
• Once sprouted, remove the plastic wrap to allow airflow.
• Replenish water as needed while seeds germinate and form roots above water.

Caring for the Seedlings

• Check daily that the water level remains just below the seeds. Add more water if needed.
• Provide bright, indirect light for at least 4-6 hours daily.
• Maintain room temperature between 65-75°F for optimal growth.
• Look for the emergence of round embryonic leaves first.
• Soon the second set of true leaves will develop.
• Remove any rotting or fungus-affected seeds immediately.
• Alter the water every 24 hours to supply oxygen and prevent disease.
• Once second leaves appear, the seedling is ready for transplanting.
• Consistent care by maintaining proper water, light and temperature is vital.

Transplanting the Coriander Plant

• Transplant the coriander seedlings once the second set of true leaves emerges.
• Gently remove the seedlings from water and handle the roots carefully.
• Use containers with potting mix, vermiculite or cocopeat for continued growth.
• Make holes in the new medium and place the seedling roots carefully.
• Cover the root zone with more medium and pat gently to minimize transplant shock.
• Water immediately after transplanting and allow excess to drain out.
• Place the transplanted seedling in a sunny location.
• Pinch off the tip to encourage bushy growth.
• Transplanting the young plants in this manner allows further maturation.

Tips for Growing Coriander in Water

Follow these tips to get the best results when growing coriander hydroponically:

Use Clean and Clear Containers

• Clean containers prevent rotting of seeds and growth of mold/algae.
• Wash thoroughly with soap and water before use.
• Disinfect with diluted bleach or hydrogen peroxide.
• Rinse properly to eliminate residual bleach.
• Clear glass/plastic allows viewing root development.
• Monitor water levels and root health.
• Transparent containers enable sufficient light penetration.
• Avoid reuse of dirty or opaque containers.
• Proper sanitization and visibility ensures healthy hydroponic coriander growth.

Change the Water Daily

• Replacing water every 24 hours prevents fungal and bacterial growth.
• Stagnant water allows pathogens to thrive, risking disease.
• Fresh water supplies oxygen to the submerged roots.
• Oxygen is essential for healthy root respiration and function.
• Used water has lower oxygen levels and mineral depletion.
• Daily water change flushes out any accumulated root exudates.
• Removal of old water avoids chances of waterborne diseases.
• Consistent water changing maintains a clean, aerated system.
• Frequent water replacement optimizes the growing conditions for robust coriander growth.

Provide Bright Light

• Coriander needs at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.
• Bright light powers photosynthesis for vigorous leafy growth.
• Insufficient light leads to weak, lanky plants prone to disease.
• Supplement natural light with full spectrum LED grow lights.
• Position containers near sunlit windows if outdoors is not possible.
• Artificial lights should be kept on for 14-16 hours a day.
• Monitor light intensity and move containers to brighter areas as required.
• Rotate containers occasionally for even exposure to light on all sides.
• Adequate brightness is key to robust coriander plants with abundant foliage.

Maintain Ideal Temperature

• Coriander thrives in temperatures between 65-75°F.
• Avoid temperature extremes that are too hot or too cold.
• Heat above 80°F can bolt the plants prematurely.
• Chilling injury can happen below 55°F, causing stunted growth.
• Position indoor containers away from heating/cooling vents.
• Grow outdoors only in moderate weather, not peak summer or winter.
• Use circulating fans to disperse heat build-up from lights.
• Maintain stable temperatures for steady, vigorous growth.
• Monitor conditions and adjust as needed to stay in the optimal range.

Harvest Coriander Regularly

Harvest leaves regularly by cutting from the top to promote bushy growth.

Pests and Diseases

• Hydroponic systems are less prone to pests as there is no soil.
• Aphids, spider mites, thrips may sometimes infest plants.
• Look for insects on the underside of leaves and spray off with water.
• Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap sprays if infestation is severe.
• Root rot due to fungi is a common disease in stagnant water systems.
• Avoid by changing water daily and using sterile containers.
• Yellowing leaves indicate nutritional deficiencies.
• Disinfect system with hydrogen peroxide/bleach solution occasionally.
• Remove and destroy diseased plants immediately to prevent spread.
• Maintaining hygienic conditions is key to prevent pests and diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to change water daily for growing coriander in water?

Yes, changing water daily is recommended as it prevents rotting of roots and provides fresh oxygen to the plants. Stagnant water can lead to fungal diseases.

How long does it take for coriander to grow in water?

Coriander grown in water germinates in 3-7 days. The leaves can be harvested in just 2-3 weeks as hydroponic systems allow rapid growth.

Can I grow coriander in water during winters?

Yes, coriander can be grown in water indoors during winters. Maintain indoor temperatures between 65-75°F and provide artificial lighting to compensate for less sunlight.

Is coriander grown in water safe for consumption?

Yes, coriander grown hydroponically is safe to eat provided the system is kept clean and hygienic. Ensure the water is changed daily and use a mild disinfectant occasionally.

What are the ideal lighting conditions for growing coriander in water?

Coriander thrives best in bright light. Provide at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight or 14-16 hours under LED grow lights or fluorescent tubes for optimum growth. Growing coriander in water is an easy and fun way to enjoy fresh cilantro leaves. With proper care, anyone can produce this flavorful herb hydroponically right at home