Coriander seeding: everything you need to know

The cultivation of coriander (Coriandrum sativum) is increasingly in demand at an industrial level, both for the production of fresh leaves for the fourth range and for seeds used in the food industry. For farms and professional growers, coriander seeding requires precise technical knowledge and reliable equipment capable of ensuring uniform emergence, high yields and optimised production costs.

In this article, we analyse the key agronomic factors and explain why Ortomec seeders, such as the Multi-Seed, represent the most advanced and cost-effective solution for competitive coriander production.

Coriander growth cycle

Coriander is an annual crop with a relatively short cycle (90-120 days). The main stages are:

• Germination: 7-10 days at a soil temperature between 15 and 20 °C.
• Vegetative growth: development of basal leaves and the characteristic divided foliage.
• Flower induction: influenced by photoperiod and temperature; above 25 °C, the plant tends to flower early.
• Flowering and fruit set: production of umbrella-shaped inflorescences that will form the fruits (seeds).
• Ripening: completed within 100-120 days.

Understanding the growth cycle allows farms to plan successive sowings and manage harvest batches according to the commercial purpose (leaves or seeds).

When to seed coriander

The seeding period directly affects yield and quality:

• Temperate climates: spring (March-April) or autumn (September-October).
• Mediterranean areas: autumn seeding is recommended to take advantage of mild temperatures and natural soil moisture.
• Protected crops: in greenhouses, staggered cycles can be managed throughout the year.

For optimal germination, soil temperature should be maintained between 12 and 18 °C. Seeding too early or too late can compromise uniformity and yield.

Soil preparation

The seedbed is a key element for farms that aim to standardise production:

• Loose or sandy-loam soil with good drainage.
• Tillage: shallow ploughing (20-25 cm) followed by fine harrowing.
• Ideal pH: 6.2 – 7.5.
• Base fertilisation: phosphorus and potassium to strengthen roots and improve stress tolerance.

Poor soil preparation leads to uneven emergence and non-uniform batches, difficult to manage on an industrial scale.

Coriander seeding techniques

This phase has the greatest impact on productivity:

• Seeding rate: 12-15 kg/ha. Denser for leaf production, lower for seed production.
• Depth: 1-2 cm to ensure timely emergence.
• Row spacing: 25-30 cm, ideal for air circulation and mechanical weeding.
• Precision seeders: Ortomec machines ensure uniform seed placement, waste reduction and adaptability to different varieties.

Our Multi-Seed pneumatic seeder is ideal for coriander:

• versatile and suitable for small seeds,
• constant and uniform dosage,
• quick adjustments to suit different crops,
• optimisation of time and operational costs for medium-to-large farms.

Pneumatic seeding is the standard for high-value crops like coriander, ensuring regular seed placement and homogeneous stands.

Seedling care

The first weeks are critical for success:

• Irrigation: constant and targeted, preferably drip, to reduce fungal risk.
• Weed management: essential due to slow initial growth; mechanical hoeing or mulching are recommended.
• Nutrition: nitrogen for foliage, phosphorus and potassium for roots and resistance.
• Plant protection: monitor aphids and powdery mildew.

A professional approach also includes staggered sowing, to distribute harvest volumes and balance workloads.

Flowering management

• Leaf production: regular irrigation and frequent cutting delay bolting.
• Seed production: promote flowering and maintain healthy plants until full maturity. Harvest when the fruits (dichasia) turn brown, ensuring aroma and quality.

Correct timing is essential to achieve high commercial standards and certified seed quality.

Conclusion

Coriander seeding is a high-potential crop that requires technical discipline and appropriate tools. Professional growers should focus on:

• correct crop cycle planning,
• proper soil preparation,
• precision seeding techniques,
• reliable machinery investments.

Ortomec seeders, particularly the Multi-Seed, are the strategic choice for those aiming for high yields, uniform emergence and reduced operating costs.

If you are a professional producer looking to optimize coriander seeding, contact us: our team will help you choose the best solution for your farm.