Herb

When to Plant Cilantro in Washington

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

Western Washington grows excellent cilantro for most of the year — the cool maritime climate prevents the rapid bolting that frustrates gardeners in hotter climates. Cilantro is one of the few herbs that grows better in western Washington than in warm-climate states.

Washington Frost Dates

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

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
Western Washington (Seattle/Tacoma) 8a, 8b Mar 25 - Apr 15 Oct 25 - Nov 15
Puget Sound 8b, 9a Mar 15 - Apr 5 Nov 1 - Nov 20
Eastern Washington 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a Apr 25 - May 15 Sep 25 - Oct 15
Central Washington 6a, 6b, 7a Apr 20 - May 10 Oct 1 - Oct 20

Cilantro Planting Schedule for Washington

Western Washington (Seattle/Tacoma) (Zones 8a, 8b)

Average last frost: Mar 25 - Apr 15 · Average first frost: Oct 25 - Nov 15

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

Puget Sound (Zones 8b, 9a)

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

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

Eastern Washington (Zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a)

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

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

Central Washington (Zones 6a, 6b, 7a)

Average last frost: Apr 20 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 20

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

Growing Cilantro in Washington

State-Specific Growing Tips

Western WA: sow March through September — the cool climate extends the cilantro season dramatically. This is one of the best cilantro-growing regions in the country. Eastern WA: sow March through May, August through October. WSU Extension considers cilantro an excellent herb for western Washington.

Recommended Varieties for Washington

Any variety works in western WA's cool climate. Santo and Calypso for eastern WA where heat triggers bolting.

Common Challenges in Washington

Slugs on seedlings in western WA. Aphids. In eastern WA, bolting in summer heat — follow the spring-fall pattern.

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 Washington with proper attention to regional frost dates and local growing conditions. Timing varies across the state — Western Washington (Seattle/Tacoma) gardeners work with a last frost around Mar 25 - Apr 15, while Central Washington sees frost end around Apr 20 - 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 Washington Planting Calendar All plants for Washington 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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