Herb

When to Plant Cilantro in Kentucky

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 Kentucky, 6 weeks before your first frost date. That means planting around Oct 5 - Oct 20 in Northern Kentucky.

Kentucky Frost Dates

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

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
Northern Kentucky 6a, 6b Apr 15 - May 1 Oct 5 - Oct 20
Central Kentucky 6b Apr 10 - Apr 25 Oct 10 - Oct 25
Western Kentucky 6b, 7a Apr 5 - Apr 20 Oct 15 - Nov 1

Cilantro Planting Schedule for Kentucky

Northern Kentucky (Zones 6a, 6b)

Average last frost: Apr 15 - May 1 · Average first frost: Oct 5 - Oct 20

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

Central Kentucky (Zones 6b)

Average last frost: Apr 10 - Apr 25 · Average first frost: Oct 10 - Oct 25

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

Western Kentucky (Zones 6b, 7a)

Average last frost: Apr 5 - Apr 20 · Average first frost: Oct 15 - Nov 1

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

Growing Cilantro in Kentucky

Cilantro in Kentucky's Climate

Cilantro thrives in your cool springs and falls but bolts rapidly once temperatures exceed 80°F. Succession plant every 2-3 weeks during the cool windows. Let some plants bolt to produce coriander seeds (a spice in their own right) and self-seed for volunteer plants next season.

Soil Considerations for Kentucky

Clay soils over limestone bedrock. Naturally alkaline. Good for many vegetables with amendment. Excellent for root crops in some areas.

Kentucky Climate & Growing Season

Mild, four-season climate. Adequate rainfall. Hot, humid summers. Good growing season.

Growing season length varies across Kentucky: Northern Kentucky (6a, 6b) has a last frost around Apr 15 - May 1, while Western Kentucky (6b, 7a) sees frost end around Apr 5 - Apr 20. 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 Kentucky, but your exact planting dates depend on which region you're in. Northern Kentucky gardeners should plan around a Apr 15 - May 1 last frost, while those in Western Kentucky can typically plant earlier. 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 Kentucky Planting Calendar All plants for Kentucky 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

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