Can You Harvest Cilantro After It Flowers? And Why Do Bees Love It So Much?

Cilantro, also known as coriander in some regions, is a versatile herb widely used in culinary traditions around the world. Its fresh, citrusy flavor enhances dishes ranging from salsas to curries. However, cilantro has a relatively short lifecycle, and one of the most common questions gardeners and cooks ask is: Can you harvest cilantro after it flowers? The answer is both simple and complex, depending on your goals and perspective. Let’s dive into the details.

The Lifecycle of Cilantro: From Seed to Flower

Cilantro is an annual herb, meaning it completes its lifecycle within a single growing season. It starts as a seed, grows into a leafy plant, and eventually flowers and produces seeds (coriander). The flowering stage, known as “bolting,” is a natural part of the plant’s lifecycle. Bolting is often triggered by warm weather, long daylight hours, or stress, such as insufficient water.

Once cilantro bolts, the plant shifts its energy from leaf production to flower and seed production. This is where the debate begins: Can you still harvest cilantro after it flowers?

Harvesting Cilantro After Flowering: The Pros and Cons

1. Yes, You Can Harvest Cilantro After It Flowers

Leaves Are Still Edible: Even after flowering, cilantro leaves remain edible. However, their flavor may become more bitter and less vibrant compared to pre-bolting leaves.
Flowers Are Edible Too: Cilantro flowers are not only beautiful but also edible. They have a milder flavor than the leaves and can be used as a garnish or in salads.
Seeds (Coriander) Are a Bonus: If you allow the plant to fully mature, you can harvest coriander seeds, which are a staple in many spice blends.

2. No, It’s Not Ideal for Leaf Harvesting

Flavor Changes: As mentioned, the leaves become more bitter after flowering. If you’re growing cilantro primarily for its fresh leaves, bolting is a sign that the plant is past its prime.
Texture Changes: Post-bolting leaves tend to be tougher and less tender, making them less desirable for fresh use.

Why Do Bees Love Cilantro Flowers So Much?

Cilantro flowers are a magnet for pollinators, especially bees. Here’s why:

Nectar and Pollen: Cilantro flowers produce abundant nectar and pollen, which are essential food sources for bees.
Open Flower Structure: The small, umbrella-shaped flowers of cilantro are easy for bees to access, making them a favorite.
Timing: Cilantro often flowers in late spring or early summer, a critical time for bees as they build their colonies.

If you’re growing cilantro and notice bees buzzing around the flowers, consider it a win for your garden’s ecosystem. Bees play a crucial role in pollinating other plants, so having cilantro in your garden can benefit your entire plot.

Tips for Managing Cilantro Bolting

If you want to prolong the leafy stage of cilantro, here are some tips:

Plant Successively: Sow cilantro seeds every 2-3 weeks to ensure a continuous supply of fresh leaves.
Choose Slow-Bolting Varieties: Some cilantro varieties, like ‘Slow Bolt’ or ‘Calypso,’ are bred to resist bolting.
Provide Shade: In hot climates, provide partial shade to keep the plants cooler and delay bolting.
Harvest Regularly: Frequent harvesting can encourage bushier growth and delay flowering.

Creative Uses for Bolted Cilantro

If your cilantro has bolted, don’t despair. Here are some creative ways to use the plant:

Make Coriander Seeds: Allow the flowers to mature into seeds, then harvest and dry them for use as coriander.
Infuse Oils or Vinegars: Use the flowers or seeds to infuse oils or vinegars for a unique flavor.
Compost It: If you’re not interested in using the flowers or seeds, add the plant to your compost pile to enrich your soil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can you eat cilantro flowers?
Yes, cilantro flowers are edible and have a mild, herbaceous flavor. They make a beautiful garnish for dishes.

Q2: How do you harvest coriander seeds from cilantro?
Allow the flowers to mature and turn into seed pods. Once the pods turn brown, cut the stems and hang them upside down in a dry place. Once dry, shake the pods to release the seeds.

Q3: Does cilantro grow back after harvesting?
Cilantro is an annual plant, so it won’t regrow after the entire plant is harvested. However, you can extend its life by harvesting leaves regularly and preventing bolting.

Q4: Why does cilantro bolt so quickly?
Cilantro bolts in response to warm temperatures, long daylight hours, or stress. To delay bolting, plant in cooler seasons or provide shade.

Q5: Can you grow cilantro indoors to prevent bolting?
Yes, growing cilantro indoors can help control temperature and light exposure, potentially delaying bolting. Use a sunny windowsill or grow lights.

In conclusion, while cilantro’s flavor and texture change after flowering, the plant still offers value in the form of edible flowers and seeds. Whether you choose to harvest it post-bolting or focus on preventing flowering altogether, cilantro remains a rewarding herb to grow and enjoy. And don’t forget to thank the bees for their hard work!