Lemongrass is a versatile herb known for its culinary and aromatic uses. It features coarse, wide leaves and forms clumps from bulbs. Gardeners can choose from varieties like West Indian and East Indian lemongrass, each with unique traits. Growing lemongrass is relatively easy, requiring full sunlight and regular watering, making it a great addition to any garden.
- Common Names: Lemon Grass, Oil Grass
- Scientific Name: Cymbopogon citratus
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial, ornamental grass
- Plant Height: 2-4 feet
- Growing Difficulty: Medium
- Bloom Time: This plant does not flower
- Hardiness Zone: 8b-11b (Find your hardiness zone here)
- Sunlight: Full Sun
- Watering Frequency: Moist soil conditions preferred
- Plant Spacing: Leave two to three feet between plants
Different Methods to Grow Lemongrass
Growing in the Ground
Plant lemongrass in full sun with well-drained, fertile soil. Space plants two to three feet apart, ensuring the bulbs are just at the soil line. This method allows the plants to grow large and robust.
- Pros: Plants can grow large and robust; suitable for large gardens.
- Cons: Requires suitable soil and space; not ideal for areas with poor drainage or clay soil.
Growing in Containers
Use a large pot with high-quality potting soil. Place the container in full sun and water regularly. Repot with fresh soil in spring to maintain plant health.
- Pros: Can be moved indoors during cold weather; suitable for small spaces.
- Cons: Requires regular repotting and more frequent watering.
Growing in Water
Place a lemongrass stalk in a glass of water, ensuring the bulb is submerged. Keep it in a sunny spot and change the water every few days. Transplant to soil once roots are 2-3 inches long.
- Pros: Easy to monitor root growth; simple propagation method.
- Cons: Requires careful transition to soil; not a permanent growing solution.
Ideal Soil and Location Requirements
For optimal growth, lemongrass thrives in rich, loamy soil with organic amendments like compost. It requires full sun exposure and well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Protecting the plant from strong winds is also beneficial.
When to Plant Lemongrass
Plant lemongrass after the last frost, ideally when nighttime temperatures are consistently above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Start seeds indoors three weeks before the final frost. Transplant outdoors once the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up sufficiently.
Growing Lemongrass Outdoors
Growing lemongrass outdoors in a garden is straightforward and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Choose the Right Time. Plant lemongrass after the last frost when nighttime temperatures are consistently above 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Select a Sunny Spot. Find a location in your garden that receives full sun for at least six hours a day.
- Prepare the Soil. Ensure the soil is rich, fertile, and loose. If your garden soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand to improve drainage.
- Space the Plants. Leave two to three feet between each plant to allow ample room for growth.
- Plant the Bulbs. Set the lemongrass bulbs so the bottoms rest just at the soil line, with the roots buried.
- Water Regularly. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Lemongrass prefers moist conditions.
- Protect from Wind. Choose a location sheltered from strong winds to prevent the plants from breaking or flattening.
- Fertilize Weekly. Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer or a slow-release product to promote healthy growth.
Growing Lemongrass Indoors
Growing lemongrass indoors is entirely possible and can be done effectively by propagating it in water and then transplanting it into soil. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you grow lemongrass indoors:
- Start with a Stalk. Obtain a fresh lemongrass stalk from a grocery store or garden center. Ensure it has a bulbous base.
- Prepare the Stalk. Remove any leaves from the lower part of the stalk, leaving the bulb intact.
- Place in Water. Fill a glass with water and place the stalk in it, ensuring the bulb is submerged. Place the glass in a sunny spot.
- Change Water Regularly. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh and prevent stagnation.
- Wait for Roots. Allow roots to grow until they are 2-3 inches long. This usually takes a few weeks.
- Prepare a Pot. Choose a large pot with drainage holes and fill it with high-quality potting soil.
- Transplant the Stalk. Once the roots are long enough, plant the stalk in the pot, ensuring the bulb is just at the soil line.
- Place in Sunlight. Position the pot in a location that receives full sun for at least six hours a day.
- Water Regularly. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water daily if needed.
- Fertilize Weekly. Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
Lemongrass can be a natural mosquito repellent. Planting it around outdoor seating areas can help keep these pests at bay, making your garden more enjoyable during summer evenings.
Caring for Lemongrass
- Watering: Lemongrass thrives in moist conditions, so water it once or twice weekly to keep the roots consistently moist. Avoid waterlogging the soil to prevent root rot.
- Fertilizing: Feed your lemongrass weekly with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during the peak growing season. Alternatively, use a slow-release product with an NPK ratio of 6-4-0 at planting time to ensure steady growth.
- Pest Control: Common pests like aphids and spider mites can be managed by spraying the plant with a garden hose. For more severe infestations, apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Neem oil is also effective against aphids.
- Harvesting: To harvest lemongrass, use a hand trowel to remove individual stalks, roots, and all, from the clump. Trim off the tough outer leaves and use the tender white stalks in your culinary creations. You can also freeze whole stalk pieces for later use.
- Winter Care: Lemongrass is sensitive to freezing temperatures. If you live in a colder climate, bring potted plants indoors when temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit to protect them from frost.
Common Challenges With Lemongrass
In my experience, lemongrass is a relatively easy plant to grow, especially if you provide it with the right conditions. It thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, making it a resilient addition to any garden. Whether you choose to grow it in the ground, in containers, or even start it in water, lemongrass adapts well and can quickly become a lush, aromatic feature in your garden.
However, growing lemongrass does come with its challenges. It requires consistent moisture and cannot tolerate drought, so regular watering is essential. Additionally, lemongrass is frost-sensitive and needs protection from cold temperatures. Pests like aphids and spider mites can also pose problems, but with proper care, these issues can be managed effectively.
Safety of Lemongrass for Pets
Lemongrass is toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested lemongrass, contact the ASPCA 24-hour hotline immediately for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water lemongrass?
Water lemongrass once or twice weekly to keep the soil consistently moist. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. During hot weather, you may need to water more frequently to maintain the necessary moisture levels.
Can lemongrass be grown indoors year-round?
Yes, lemongrass can be grown indoors year-round. Ensure it receives full sun for at least six hours daily and keep the soil consistently moist. Using a large pot with good drainage will help maintain healthy growth.
What type of soil is best for lemongrass?
Lemongrass thrives in rich, loamy soil with good drainage. Adding organic amendments like compost can improve soil fertility and structure, providing the ideal environment for robust growth.
How do I protect lemongrass from pests?
To protect lemongrass from pests like aphids and spider mites, spray the plant with a garden hose or apply horticultural oil. Neem oil is also effective. Regular monitoring and prompt action can prevent infestations from becoming severe.
