Being one of the most used herbs in Indian dishes, if you know How to Grow Dhaniya the right way, you can have its fresh supply year-round!
What is Dhaniya?
The botanical name of Dhaniya or coriander is Coriandrum sativum. It is an annual aromatic herb with edible leaves and stems. Its seeds are used in many Indian dishes. Coriander powder is also a famous spice, without which no Indian vegetable, chutney, or stew preparation is complete. Apart from this, the dhaniya leaves are a favorite garnish of Indians! Let’s see How to Grow Dhaniya easily in pots!
Common Names: Coriander, Chinese Parsley, Cilantro, Dhaniya, Dhana, Kothmir, Kotthu malli, Phadigom, Kothimbira, Dhane, Kottimira, Kattambari, Malli
Dhaniya Cultivation in India
Although the plants are native to Iran, they have been widely naturalized in the country to a level that India now happens to be the largest producer of coriander in the world! Most of the production comes from central and north Indian states like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat. Rajasthan alone produces around 58% of total dhaniya produce in the country. Assam is also a significant producer of dhaniya.
How to Grow Dhaniya
This section will give you step by step instructions on How to Grow Dhaniya Plant at Home!
Propagation
Growing dhaniya in pots is not very difficult. It is pretty easy to propagate these plants from seeds. You just have to crush the seeds lightly, so that they split into halves. You can then sow them directly into a pot. However, if you wish for faster growth, you can try mixing the split seeds into vermicompost or cow dung and tie them in a damp cloth until you start to see the roots growing. Now transplant these seeds into the desired container.
Sowing
When sowing the seeds directly in pots, it is important to provide proper spacing. For optimum growth, place your plants at least 3-4 inches away from each other. If you are growing from the seedlings, spread them evenly throughout the pot.
Also Read: Lockdown Vegetable Garden in India
Requirements for Growing Dhaniya
Choosing the Pot
When growing for domestic use, it is best to plant dhaniya in pots. As it becomes easier to care for it. Choose a container that is wide and deep. A pot with 18-20 inches width and 10-12 inches height should be ideal.
Soil
Soil with a crumbly texture and rich in organic matter can be beneficial in the growth of this plant. You can also provide cow manure, which will help in the proper supply of nitrogen and other vital elements for better growth.
Positioning the pot
Keep your plant in full sun, as it requires plenty of light for growth. Do remember to move the container in shade when the temperature increases during summers, especially in the afternoon.
Watering the Plant
Dhaniya grows well in evenly moist soil. Make sure that you do not wet the foliage of the plant, as it’s susceptible to the disease like powdery mildew.
Dhaniya Plant Care
Fertilization
Your plants will not require much fertilization if you give them proper doses of cow manure or compost. Also, provide your dhaniya plant with nitrogen-rich fertilizer to encourage the growth of the foliage, at least twice every month.
Deadheading the Plant
Deadhead your plants regularly. Keep a check on flowers in the plant and remove them to promote the growth of leaves. However, you can let the flowers be if you wish for the plant to seed.
Bolting
Another problem with the dhaniya plant is bolting. It means that the plant will seed earlier in warm weather, after which the plant dies. You can save your plant by pinching the top off, as it can slow down the process of seeding. However, the best way to solve this problem is by planting seeds every week for a regular supply of dhaniya.
Diseases and Pests
The plant is easily affected by the mildew, especially in hot weather. Provide your plants with proper air circulation and avoid wetting the foliage to keep them safe from it. Common pests like aphids may also affect your plant.
Harvesting Dhaniya
You can start harvesting the leaves from dhaniya plant, once they reach a height of around 3-6 inches, which is about 3-4 weeks after sowing the seeds. But if you are growing it from sprouts, you can harvest the leaves in 18-20 days of planting it.
Health Benefits of Coriander
Rich in vitamins, dietary fiber, and minerals, Coriander makes a great addition to diet and helps you stay fit. Here are some of its incredible health benefits.
- Coriander lowers blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of getting type 2 diabetes.
- According to this research, it keeps your heart healthy by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure.
- This herb is good for brain health and consuming its leaves result in better memory and relief from anxiety.
- Coriander also promotes good digestive and gut-healthy with its anti-inflammatory properties. It provides relief from abdominal pain and bloating.
