Can Parsley and Cilantro Be Planted Together? Yes!

By James Wilson · January 24, 2026

Yes, parsley and cilantro can be planted together successfully, as they share similar growing conditions including sunlight, soil type, and watering needs, making them ideal companion plants in gardens or containers.

Why Parsley and Cilantro Grow Well Together

Both parsley (Petroselinum crispum) and cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) are cool-season herbs that thrive under comparable environmental conditions. Their compatibility makes co-planting not only feasible but beneficial for space utilization and garden health.

Shared Growth Requirements

Prefer full sun to partial shade (6 hours of sunlight daily)
Grow best in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0
Require consistent moisture without waterlogging
Flourish in temperatures between 50°F and 80°F (10°C–27°C)

Benefits of Planting Them Together

Combining these herbs offers practical advantages:

Space efficiency: Ideal for small gardens or container planting.
Pest deterrence: Their strong scents may help repel aphids and spider mites.
Soil conservation: Dense foliage reduces evaporation and suppresses weeds.

Optimal Planting Practices for Parsley and Cilantro

To ensure both herbs thrive when grown side by side, follow science-backed cultivation techniques.

Planting Spacing and Depth

Proper spacing prevents overcrowding and promotes air circulation:

Sow seeds ¼ inch deep
Thin seedlings to 6–8 inches apart within rows
Leave 12 inches between rows for airflow and access

Container Growing Tips

If using pots:

Choose containers at least 8–10 inches deep to accommodate root development
Use high-quality potting mix with perlite for drainage
Place in a sunny window or balcony receiving morning sun

Factor	Parsley	Cilantro
Germination Time	14–30 days	7–14 days
Maturity (Days)	70–90	45–70
Water Needs (inches/week)	1.0	1.0
Soil pH Preference	6.0–7.0	6.2–6.8
Sunlight Requirement	6+ hours	6 hours
Harvest Start	~8 weeks	~3–4 weeks

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows that while cilantro germinates faster and matures earlier than parsley, their overlapping requirements for water, pH, and sunlight make them highly compatible. Gardeners should note that parsley’s longer germination period means it benefits from being started slightly earlier or paired with slower-maturing cilantro varieties.

Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Despite their compatibility, some challenges may arise when growing these herbs together.

Differing Harvest Timelines

Cilantro grows quickly and tends to bolt in heat, while parsley is slower but more heat-tolerant once established. To manage this:

Plant successive batches of cilantro every 3–4 weeks for continuous harvest
Choose slow-bolt cilantro cultivars like 'Slo-Bolt' or 'Calypso'
Position parsley on the south side of containers to maximize early light exposure

Bolting and Shade Management

When temperatures rise above 75°F (24°C), cilantro rapidly bolts, producing flowers and losing leaf flavor. Solutions include:

Provide afternoon shade using shade cloth or taller plants
Mulch around bases to keep roots cool
Interplant with lettuce or spinach to create natural shade

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Parsley and Cilantro Together

Can you plant parsley and cilantro in the same pot?

Yes, both herbs can grow well in the same container if it's large enough (at least 12 inches wide and 8–10 inches deep) and has good drainage. Use quality potting soil and place the pot in a location receiving 6 hours of sunlight daily.

Do parsley and cilantro compete for nutrients?

They have similar nutrient demands but are not heavy feeders. When planted together, use a balanced organic fertilizer every 4–6 weeks to prevent competition. Regular compost applications also support healthy growth without over-fertilizing.

Will cilantro going to seed affect parsley?

No, cilantro bolting does not directly harm parsley. However, once cilantro bolts, its foliage becomes bitter and less productive. Remove spent cilantro plants promptly to free up space and resources for parsley, which continues producing leaves longer.

What pests commonly affect parsley and cilantro?

Aphids, spider mites, and armyworms are common pests. Inspect leaves regularly and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Companion planting with marigolds or dill can naturally deter many herb pests.

How often should I water parsley and cilantro when planted together?

Water both herbs about 1 inch per week, keeping soil consistently moist but not soggy. Container plants may need watering every 2–3 days during hot weather due to faster evaporation.