More on Cilantro

Photo 1: Cilantro seed heads drying out

Photo 2: New cilantro plants sprouting from seed

There is an article in Sunset magazine that talks about a "better way" to grow cilantro.  The article explains how to grow and harvest cilantro in a way that will provide you a continuous supply of cilantro until the plant goes to seed.
Two square feet of cilantro is more than enough for our family of four.  By rotating the sections we harvested the cilantro from, we were able to have a continuous supply of cilantro for several weeks.  I do encourage you to plant your cilantro in the shade to keep it from going to seed so quickly.  However, if you are a fan of coriander or would like some cilantro seeds, allow your cilantro plant to flower and go to seed.  To learn more about harvesting your own cilantro seeds (also known as coriander), click here.

Reviving Azaleas

Photo: New growth on water-deprived azalea bush

My new azalea plant was one of the few plants that suffered while I was away on a long weekend.  The high temperatures and lack of water turned this plant into crisp.  Since then, I have watered it everyday, and weeks later, I am happy to report some new growth.    

Peppermint Back from the Dead

Photo 1: Dead mint.  One new mint shoot is growing out of the edge.

Photo 2: Mint growing out of the drainage hole

I neglected to water my wall planters for three days, which meant instant death to my container plants in this California summer weather.  Although my peppermint looked completely dead, I continued to water it hoping it would return.  See Photo 1.  Weeks later I noticed some signs of life in an unusual place.  The mint is growing out of the planter's drainage hole!  See Photo 2.  That mint is one tough cookie!