Fresh coriander is a staple in countless Indian dishes, but instead of buying bunch after bunch, Mona Chopra from Ludhiana has found a clever way to grow it continuously at home by planting the roots of market-bought coriander.
- Grow coriander from seeds or leftover roots
- Use small pots with rich, well-draining soil
- Keep soil moist and provide 4-6 hours of sunlight
What happened
Mona Chopra, a gardener from Ludhiana with years of experience growing vegetables and herbs, shares an easy way to cultivate fresh coriander at home. Beyond starting coriander from seeds, she plants the roots of coriander bunches bought at the market, which many typically discard. This approach helps her continuously harvest fresh coriander leaves without repeated shopping trips.
This technique requires only a small pot with loose, compost-rich soil and a spot that receives adequate sunlight daily. The roots, when fresh and intact, are planted directly into moist soil, enabling new shoots to appear in just a few days. This method saves space, time, and money while keeping home cooking fresh.
Why it feels good
Growing coriander at home offers a sense of satisfaction and connection to the food on your plate. Mona’s method simplifies the process, making it accessible even to beginners, as coriander thrives in containers and requires minimal care. Seeing fresh green shoots sprout from roots once thrown away creates a rewarding cycle of growth and renewal.
Additionally, by reusing coriander roots, gardeners reduce food waste and make cooking more sustainable. The fresh leaves that can be harvested repeatedly for weeks provide a continuous supply of this beloved herb, lifting the spirit of everyday meals with vibrant freshness and flavor.
What to enjoy or watch next
You can try this simple gardening trick yourself by starting with either coriander seeds or roots from your next bunch. Ensure the plant receives bright, indirect sunlight for about four to six hours daily and keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged to encourage healthy growth.
As your coriander plants flourish, consider adding homemade compost occasionally to nourish them further. Observing the sprouts grow quickly within days can be gratifying, and soon you’ll enjoy the convenience of fresh coriander leaves ready for your chutneys, dals, and snacks. Explore more herbs suited for container gardening to further brighten your kitchen garden.