Twice as Nice
Cilantro can be harvested for either the foliage or for the seeds as coriander. Cilantro is a quick grower that also can be quick to bolt, so if the intent is to grow it for the foliage, harvest early and often from the outside-in to prevent flowering (new growth will come from the inside of the plant, similar to parsley). Once a cilantro plant bolts, the foliage will be spindly, tough, and flavorless.
One to Many
One coriander seed pod actually contains two seeds, and each of those seeds will yield hundreds more when the plant is left to bolt. After the plant flowers, you'll notice shiny green pods start to form. The pods will turn matte brown and shriveled when they're ready to harvest as coriander seeds. Cut the dried seed heads and place in a brown paper bag; close and shake to release the seeds. Discard the empty seed head back in the garden or compost pile.
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Read up on how to care for cilantro and coriander here. For information on preserving cilantro and coriander, please check out our complete Preserving Herbs guide.
