When to Plant Cilantro in Macomb County, MI
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.
Macomb County, Michigan is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 28 and the first fall frost is October 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 175 days.
At an elevation of 628 feet, Macomb County receives approximately 33.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Cilantro during the growing season.
Macomb County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.9
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
Cilantro Planting Timeline — Macomb County, MI
Cilantro Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 24 | Mar 24 – Apr 7 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 21 | Apr 21 – May 5 |
| Direct Sow | April 14 | Apr 14 – May 5 |
| Fall Sowing | August 11 | Aug 11 – Aug 25 |
| Harvest | June 2 | Jun 2 – Aug 4 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| 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 6a
Growing Season
175 days
Growing Tips for Macomb 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 Macomb County, MI?
Macomb County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 28. Plan your Cilantro planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Macomb County, MI?
Macomb County, Michigan is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 28 and first fall frost is October 20.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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