I've tried cilantro more times then I care to admit (since it would prove that I AM actually insane). It always bolts and goes to seed. I use Goya recaito for all my cilantro needs. If you figure out a way to keep your cilantro going please let me know ! ...
Well, based on what I recall from growing other plants that tend to bolt - there's not much us mere mortals can do, it's up to Mother Nature. If it gets hot, they bolt.
But as NW-B says, depending on climate, you might be able to plant them in the fall. My recent experience was that I needed some Cilantro, and one option at the grocer was a small planted pot. I bought it, and that's when DW said she never has luck with them. I read up some, and yes, they are tricky. But I got some luck, this was fall, and I kept it in our 3-season room, which will stay a good 20-30F higher than ambient as we get into winter. So we got small amounts from it for a few months.
But this was a good reminder - I think I'll plant half the packet in a big pot (it gets a tap root) on the North side of the house that gets some morning sun - it does seem to stay cooler there the rest of the day. And I'll save the other half packet for Fall, and bring the pot into the 3-season room with the other herbs when it's getting cold.
But this is mostly for 'fun', and some convenience, and saving a few $ here and there is nice too. Even though fresh herbs are at
relatively high prices in the store, we aren't using enough to make it a blip in the budget either way. But I really do get a lot of enjoyment from the herbs, just being to go out in the 3-season room and pluck some fresh herbs in the dead of winter brightens the day a bit. It's really worth it for me, for the very little bit of effort it takes.
'Real' gardening just doesn't do it for me anymore. Been there, done that (in a small way - well, and a big way since I grew up on a small farm). For us, it's just too much of a battle with the deer, critters and bugs. But I still miss it a little.
-ERD50