Herb

When to Plant Cilantro in Maine

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 Maine, 6 weeks before your first frost date. That means planting around Sep 10 - Sep 25 in Northern Maine.

Maine Frost Dates

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

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
Northern Maine 3b, 4a, 4b May 20 - Jun 5 Sep 10 - Sep 25
Central Maine 4b, 5a May 10 - May 25 Sep 20 - Oct 5
Southern/Coastal Maine 5a, 5b, 6a May 1 - May 15 Sep 25 - Oct 15

Cilantro Planting Schedule for Maine

Northern Maine (Zones 3b, 4a, 4b)

Average last frost: May 20 - Jun 5 · Average first frost: Sep 10 - Sep 25

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

Central Maine (Zones 4b, 5a)

Average last frost: May 10 - May 25 · Average first frost: Sep 20 - Oct 5

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

Southern/Coastal Maine (Zones 5a, 5b, 6a)

Average last frost: May 1 - May 15 · Average first frost: Sep 25 - Oct 15

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

Growing Cilantro in Maine

Cilantro in Maine'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 Maine

Acidic, rocky soils. Blueberries thrive naturally. Raised beds common to deal with rocks. Amendment with lime needed for many vegetables.

Maine Climate & Growing Season

Short growing season but long summer days help. Maritime influence on coast. Season extension techniques very valuable.

Growing season length varies across Maine: Northern Maine (3b, 4a, 4b) has a last frost around May 20 - Jun 5, while Southern/Coastal Maine (5a, 5b, 6a) sees frost end around May 1 - May 15. 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 Maine, but your exact planting dates depend on which region you're in. Northern Maine gardeners should plan around a May 20 - Jun 5 last frost, while those in Southern/Coastal Maine 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 Maine Planting Calendar All plants for Maine 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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