When to Plant Cilantro in Roanoke City, VA
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.
Roanoke City, Virginia is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 25 and the first fall frost is October 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 178 days.
At an elevation of 336 feet, Roanoke City receives approximately 53.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 94°F, providing good warmth for Cilantro during the growing season. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Cilantro root diseases.
Roanoke City Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.5
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 — Roanoke City, VA
Cilantro Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 21 | Mar 21 – Apr 4 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 18 | Apr 18 – May 2 |
| Direct Sow | April 11 | Apr 11 – May 2 |
| Fall Sowing | August 11 | Aug 11 – Aug 25 |
| Harvest | May 30 | May 30 – Aug 1 |
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 Harvest |
| 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 7a
Growing Season
178 days
Growing Tips for Roanoke City
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 Roanoke City, VA?
Roanoke City is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 25. Plan your Cilantro planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Roanoke City, VA?
Roanoke City, Virginia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 25 and first fall frost is October 20.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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