Cilantro loves cool weather.
Fall is a prime time for the hardiest herbs; they often do better in mild winter areas when planted now. You can put an assortment of your favorite cool-weather herbs by the kitchen door–all in one container–for a pinch of each right at your fingertips. You can also plant pretty cilantro and parsley in existing flower beds or containers to serve as a green foil for pansies and other flowers. So take a few minutes this fall to set out several herbs that like cool weather. These include parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, chives, and mint; within a few weeks you will be rewarded with the freshest flavors for autumn meals. A pot roast placed in a crock pot with a few sprigs of fresh thyme, a crushed clove of garlic, a can of tomato sauce, and a pint of mushrooms makes a delicious entrée that will be ready when you are.
