How to Grow Coriander in Water – My Proven Home Method

How to grow coriander in water is a simple and mess-free method to grow fresh dhania at home without using soil. With just coriander stems or soaked seeds, clean water, and a transparent glass jar, you can successfully grow coriander indoors. This method is ideal for small spaces and works well in kitchens or balconies, I am sharing my personal experience with all the steps I follow to get healthy, green coriander leaves using just water.

It’s a method I use often during monsoon or when I want a quick harvest without going outside. Let’s learn the complete step-by-step process from start to harvest.

What is Coriander?

Coriander, or dhania, is one of the most commonly used herbs in Indian households. Both the seeds and leaves are used in cooking. The leaves are soft, aromatic, and full of flavor. Apart from taste, coriander is rich in:

Vitamin C
Antioxidants
Iron and magnesium
Digestive properties

Coriander is also easy to grow, whether in soil or water. But if you’re short on space or want to avoid mud, water-growing is the best option.

Quick Tips – How to Grow Coriander in Water

Here are some important points I always follow for quick and healthy coriander growth:

Use fresh coriander stems with roots for faster growth
Soak coriander seeds overnight before using, if you choose seeds
Use a clean glass jar or transparent container
Change the water every 2 days to keep it fresh
Keep in bright, indirect sunlight — not harsh direct light
Do not let leaves touch the water, only roots should be submerged
Clean the jar weekly to avoid bacteria or algae

These small but effective tips help in faster sprouting and longer-lasting coriander.

Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Coriander in Water

1. Select Fresh Coriander or Soak Seeds

You can grow coriander using two options:

Fresh coriander stems with roots – These are available in vegetable markets. Choose bunches that still have the white roots at the end.
Coriander seeds – Slightly crush the seeds and soak them in water overnight to help them sprout.

In my experience, using fresh stems with roots gives faster and more reliable results than using seeds.

2. Prepare the Jar and Water

Use a glass or transparent plastic container
Fill it halfway with filtered or cooled boiled water
Avoid using direct tap water if it contains chlorine, as it can affect root growth

I prefer using wide-mouth jars as they give more air circulation and space to the stems.

3. Place the Coriander in Water

Place the root side down into the jar
Ensure the leaves remain above the water to avoid rotting
Don’t overcrowd the container – give each stem a little space

When I grow coriander at home, I usually place 5 to 6 stems in one medium-sized jar. This gives them enough space to grow freely.

4. Provide the Right Light Conditions

Keep the jar in a bright location with indirect sunlight
A window sill or balcony corner works well
Avoid placing in strong, direct sunlight for long hours, especially in summer

I place my jar near a kitchen window that gets morning light – it works beautifully for coriander.

5. Change the Water Every 2 Days

Water is the most important part of this process. If the water is not clean, the roots may rot or get fungus.

Change the water every 2 days
Rinse the stems and roots gently while changing the water
Wash the jar once a week to avoid algae or bad smell

This small habit of water change makes a big difference. I once skipped it for 3 days, and the roots started turning slimy. So now I never miss it.

6. Watch the Growth

You’ll begin to see small new leaves and fresh white roots forming within a few days.

In 5 to 7 days, you’ll notice visible growth
By day 7 to 10, the leaves are ready for harvest

If you used seeds, it might take 10–14 days to start showing sprouts, but once started, the growth is steady.

How to Harvest Coriander Grown in Water

Once the leaves are 3 to 4 inches long:

Use clean scissors to cut the outer leaves only
Leave the inner stems to grow more leaves
Don’t cut all at once – take only what you need

This way, the plant keeps producing for a few more days. I usually harvest two or three times from one batch before replacing it with a new one.

Ideal Temperature and Light

Coriander grows best under these conditions:

Temperature between 20°C to 30°C
Indirect light for at least 4–6 hours daily
Avoid placing it under a fan or very dry area

Too much heat or direct sunlight can cause the plant to bolt (flower and die early), especially in summer. In my case, during peak summer, I grow coriander near the east-facing window to avoid afternoon heat.

Common Tips to Keep in Mind

Here are a few practical tips I’ve learned from growing coriander in water multiple times:

Always use clean water to avoid bacteria or root rot
Do not submerge the leaves in water – they will rot quickly
Trim off any yellow or slimy roots
Clean the jar weekly with mild soap and rinse properly
Don’t overcrowd – each stem needs light and air

Following these small steps will make your coriander grow faster and healthier.

How Long Will It Last?

Coriander in water stays fresh and harvestable for about 10 to 15 days. After that, the stems may weaken, and new growth slows down.

I generally grow a new batch every 10 days to maintain a regular supply. Sometimes I keep two jars on rotation so I never run out.

FAQ – Grow Coriander in Water

Can coriander grow in water without soil?

Yes, coriander can grow in water without soil. You can use fresh coriander stems with roots or soaked seeds. With clean water, proper light, and regular care, you can grow fresh coriander leaves at home easily.

How long does coriander take to grow in water?

Coriander usually starts showing new growth within 5 to 7 days when using stems with roots. If you use seeds, sprouting may take 10 to 14 days. You can harvest the leaves in about 7 to 10 days after growth starts.

What is the best place to keep the coriander jar?

Keep the jar in a spot that gets bright, indirect sunlight, such as near a window or balcony. Avoid strong afternoon sun or placing the jar in a dark corner.

Conclusion:

Growing coriander in water is the easiest way to get fresh, green dhania leaves right at home. You don’t need soil, sunlight is minimal, and maintenance is simple. I’ve used this method many times, and it always gives quick results with little effort.

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