When to Plant Cilantro in Wilkinson County, MS
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.
Wilkinson County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 3 and the first fall frost is November 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 265 days.
At an elevation of 379 feet, Wilkinson County receives approximately 54.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 94°F, providing good warmth for Cilantro during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Cilantro, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Cilantro root diseases.
Wilkinson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.3
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 — Wilkinson County, MS
Cilantro Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 27 | Jan 27 – Feb 10 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 24 | Feb 24 – Mar 10 |
| Direct Sow | February 17 | Feb 17 – Mar 10 |
| Fall Sowing | September 14 | Sep 14 – Sep 28 |
| Harvest | April 7 | Apr 7 – Jun 9 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| 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 8a
Growing Season
265 days
Growing Tips for Wilkinson 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 Wilkinson County, MS?
Wilkinson County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 3. Plan your Cilantro planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Wilkinson County, MS?
Wilkinson County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 3 and first fall frost is November 23.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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