Herb

When to Plant Cilantro in Michigan

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

Michigan's cool springs grow excellent cilantro, and the state's moderate summer temperatures mean cilantro holds longer before bolting than in hot-climate states. Northern Michigan can even grow cilantro through summer in cool years.

Michigan Frost Dates

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

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
Upper Peninsula 4a, 4b, 5a May 15 - Jun 5 Sep 10 - Sep 25
Northern Lower Michigan 5a, 5b May 10 - May 25 Sep 20 - Oct 5
Southern Michigan 5b, 6a, 6b Apr 25 - May 10 Oct 1 - Oct 15

Cilantro Planting Schedule for Michigan

Upper Peninsula (Zones 4a, 4b, 5a)

Average last frost: May 15 - Jun 5 · Average first frost: Sep 10 - Sep 25

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

Northern Lower Michigan (Zones 5a, 5b)

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 Michigan (Zones 5b, 6a, 6b)

Average last frost: Apr 25 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 15

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

Growing Cilantro in Michigan

State-Specific Growing Tips

Direct sow from mid-April. Succession plant every 2-3 weeks through June. Michigan's cool climate extends the cilantro window — the herb may produce for 6-8 weeks before bolting vs. 3-4 weeks in southern states. Fall cilantro from an August sowing is highly productive.

Recommended Varieties for Michigan

Santo and Calypso for slow bolting. Any variety works in Michigan's cool spring.

Common Challenges in Michigan

Bolting in July-August heat (less of a problem in northern Michigan). Aphids on new growth.

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 in Michigan with proper attention to regional frost dates and local growing conditions. Timing varies across the state — Upper Peninsula gardeners work with a last frost around May 15 - Jun 5, while Southern Michigan sees frost end around Apr 25 - May 10. Choose varieties suited to your region, amend your soil based on its specific needs, and monitor for the pests and diseases most common in your area. 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 Michigan Planting Calendar All plants for Michigan 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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