Herb

When to Plant Cilantro in Idaho

You either love it or your genetics say no. For the cilantro lovers, it's an essential herb that bolts fast in heat.

The Short Answer

Cilantro are planted in fall in Idaho, 6 weeks before your first frost date. That means planting around Sep 15 - Oct 5 in Northern Idaho.

Idaho Frost Dates

Your planting dates depend on which part of Idaho you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
Northern Idaho 5a, 5b, 6a May 5 - May 25 Sep 15 - Oct 5
Boise Area 6b, 7a Apr 20 - May 5 Oct 5 - Oct 20
Eastern Idaho 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a May 20 - Jun 10 Sep 1 - Sep 20

Cilantro Planting Schedule for Idaho

Northern Idaho (Zones 5a, 5b, 6a)

Average last frost: May 5 - May 25 · Average first frost: Sep 15 - Oct 5

Direct Sow
2 wks before frost
Fall Planting
6 wks before first frost

Boise Area (Zones 6b, 7a)

Average last frost: Apr 20 - May 5 · Average first frost: Oct 5 - Oct 20

Direct Sow
2 wks before frost
Fall Planting
6 wks before first frost

Eastern Idaho (Zones 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a)

Average last frost: May 20 - Jun 10 · Average first frost: Sep 1 - Sep 20

Direct Sow
2 wks before frost
Fall Planting
6 wks before first frost

Growing Cilantro in Idaho

Cilantro in Idaho's Climate

Your cool climate extends the cilantro season significantly. Direct sow from mid-April — the herb may produce for 6-8 weeks before bolting versus 3-4 weeks in warm zones. Northern Michigan and Minnesota's moderate summer temperatures are genuine cilantro advantages. Fall cilantro from an August sowing is highly productive.

Soil Considerations for Idaho

Volcanic ash soils in south — excellent for gardening. Rocky soils in mountains. Alkaline in many areas.

Idaho Climate & Growing Season

Arid climate. Low humidity. Hot days and cool nights. Irrigation essential. Short season at higher elevations.

Growing season length varies across Idaho: Northern Idaho (5a, 5b, 6a) has a last frost around May 5 - May 25, while Eastern Idaho (3b, 4a, 4b, 5a) sees frost end around May 20 - Jun 10. This difference matters for cilantro — adjust your planting dates to match your specific region.

Growing Tips

Bolts quickly in heat — succession plant every 3 weeks and grow in partial shade during summer. Let some bolt for coriander seeds.

Companion Planting

Plant cilantro alongside these companions for better growth:

Beans Peas Tomatoes

Keep cilantro away from:

Fennel

The Bottom Line

Cilantro can be grown successfully across Idaho, but your exact planting dates depend on which region you're in. Northern Idaho gardeners should plan around a May 5 - May 25 last frost, while those in Eastern Idaho can typically plant later. For exact dates based on your zip code, use our free planting date finder.

Related Guides

Cilantro Growing Guide National planting guide with all states Idaho Planting Calendar All plants for Idaho Cilantro in Alabama Alabama planting dates Cilantro in Alaska Alaska planting dates Cilantro in Arizona Arizona planting dates Cilantro in Arkansas Arkansas planting dates
Note: All dates are based on NOAA 30-year Climate Normals and represent historical averages, not predictions for any specific year. Always check your local weather forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops. Learn about our data sources.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026

Ready to Start Planting?

Enter your zip code and pick your plant. We'll tell you exactly when to plant, start seeds, and harvest — based on where you live.

Find Your Planting Dates