Growing coriander (Cilantro) at home in water using a strainer can be a fun and rewarding project. Here are the steps to do so:
Materials you’ll need:
- Coriander seeds
- A strainer or mesh container
- A shallow dish or tray
- Water
- Potting soil (optional)
Steps:
- Select the coriander seeds: You can purchase coriander seeds from a garden store or use seeds from the coriander (cilantro) that you bought at the grocery store. Make sure they are whole seeds and not ground.
- Prepare the strainer or mesh container: Choose a strainer or mesh container that allows water to drain easily while holding the seeds. Ensure it’s clean and free of any debris.
- Soak the seeds: Place the coriander seeds in a small container and cover them with water. Let them soak for about 24 hours. This helps soften the seeds’ outer shells and encourages germination.
- Rinse the seeds: After soaking, rinse the seeds thoroughly under running water to remove any residue.
- Fill the strainer: Place the strainer in a shallow dish or tray to catch any excess water. Fill the strainer with the soaked coriander seeds.
- Maintain moisture: Keep the seeds consistently moist but not waterlogged. You can add a small amount of water to the dish or tray beneath the strainer to create humidity. The strainer should allow excess water to drain away.
- Provide indirect sunlight: Coriander prefers indirect sunlight rather than direct sunlight. Place the strainer in a location that receives bright, filtered sunlight or partial shade.
- Monitor and wait: It may take a few days to a couple of weeks for the coriander seeds to sprout. Be patient and keep the seeds moist. Once they sprout, you can continue to grow them in water or transplant them into potting soil if you prefer.
- Harvest and maintain: As your coriander plants grow, you can start harvesting leaves when they reach a reasonable size. Trim the leaves with scissors, leaving some growth behind to allow the plant to continue growing.
- Change the water: Occasionally, change the water to keep it fresh and prevent the growth of algae or mold.
Growing coriander in water using a strainer is a simple and convenient way to enjoy fresh cilantro leaves at home. Just remember to maintain the right moisture level and provide adequate light to ensure healthy growth.
