When to Plant Cilantro in Elk County, KS
Cilantro is a dual-purpose herb providing fresh leaves (cilantro) and dried seeds (coriander). It bolts quickly in heat, producing flowers beloved by beneficial insects.
Elk County, Kansas is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 7 and the first fall frost is October 25, giving you a growing season of approximately 201 days.
At an elevation of 700 feet, Elk County receives approximately 30.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Cilantro during the growing season.
Elk County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Cilantro Planting Timeline — Elk County, KS
Cilantro Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 3 | Mar 3 – Mar 17 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 31 | Mar 31 – Apr 14 |
| Direct Sow | March 24 | Mar 24 – Apr 14 |
| Fall Sowing | August 16 | Aug 16 – Aug 30 |
| Harvest | May 12 | May 12 – Jul 14 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
40–60 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 6b
Growing Season
201 days
Growing Tips for Elk County
Succession sow every 2-3 weeks. Provide afternoon shade in warm weather. Harvest leaves before flowering or allow some plants to go to seed for coriander and self-sowing.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Cilantro in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Cilantro in Elk County, KS?
Elk County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 7. Plan your Cilantro planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Elk County, KS?
Elk County, Kansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 7 and first fall frost is October 25.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Elk County gardeners in Zone 6b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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