In the rich tapestry of global cuisine and traditional medicine, lemongrass holds a unique place. Known for its aromatic, citrusy scent and potential health benefits, this tropical plant has been cherished across cultures for centuries. Used in everything from Thai curries to calming teas, lemongrass is a versatile herb that many gardeners and home cooks are eager to include in their repertoire. But why buy it when you can grow lemongrass yourself?
Growing lemongrass at home not only ensures a fresh supply for your culinary creations but also fills your garden with its delightful fragrance. Bonus if you’re in zone 9 or 10 like me, this gem is a perennial!
If you’ve contemplated adding this exotic herb to your collection, you’re in the right place. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to cultivate lemongrass in your backyard or on your windowsill successfully.
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Choosing the Right Lemongrass Variety
Your journey to growing lemongrass at home begins with choosing a suitable variety. The most commonly available types are Cymbopogon citratus (West Indian lemongrass) and Cymbopogon flexuosus (East Indian lemongrass).
If you are looking for a variety primarily for cooking, West Indian lemongrass is your best bet. Originating from Malaysia, it is renowned for its intense citrus flavor and aroma, making it a favorite in many kitchens. *Hint* This is the variety you’ll likely find in most nurseries in the United States.
On the other hand, East Indian lemongrass, which is native to India, Sri Lanka, Burma, and Thailand, is versatile enough for both culinary uses and the perfume industry due to its long-lasting oil. Depending on your primary use—whether for its flavor in dishes or its aromatic properties—select the variety that best suits your needs.
Planting Lemongrass
The successful planting of lemongrass, a tropical plant, hinges on the right timing and location.
Lemongrass thrives in warm, humid climates, akin to its native Southeast Asia. It loves full sun, so choose a spot in your garden that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While lemongrass is quite hardy, it prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. If your garden soil is heavy or clay-like, consider adding sand or compost to enhance drainage and fertility. Living in Florida, my soil is quite sandy, so I have to amend almost anything I plant in the ground.
Correct planting methods pave the way for a healthy and abundant harvest.
The Importance of Proper Drainage
Proper drainage is crucial for lemongrass, as it prevents waterlogging, which can rot the roots. When planting in the ground, make sure the soil is loose and well-aerated. If you’re potting your lemongrass, ensure the container has several drainage holes. Using a potting mix with good drainage properties can also help maintain the right moisture balance.
When to Plant
Lemongrass should be planted in the spring after all chances of frost have passed. The ideal time to plant is when temperatures are consistently above 40°F and ideally between 70°F to 90°F. This herb’s cold tolerance level is pretty much non- existent so it’s important to not plant too early.
Start by acclimatizing young garden plants to outdoor conditions before transferring them to your garden in early summer.
Selecting Lemongrass Plants
Before you get your hands dirty, it all starts with selecting the right lemongrass plant. Farmers markets and grocery stores often carry lemongrass stalks suitable for planting. Look for firm, healthy stalks with some roots still attached. These will give you the best chance of success when starting your lemongrass garden.
Growing Lemongrass from Stalks
Instead of using seeds, you can also propagate lemongrass from fresh stalks. This method is simple and effective, especially if you can access fresh, firm stalks from the market. Or you can propagate from what’s already growing in your garden like me! I absolutely love to propagate any and every plant and herb I can! Not just to expand my garden or houseplants. The propagations make great little gifts to others!
Rooting Stalks in Water
To root juicy stalks in water, select firm, fresh stalks and remove any leaves. Place the stalks in a glass of tepid water on a sunny windowsill and refresh the water daily until roots form.
Transplanting Rooted Stalks
Once roots have formed, transplant the stalks into small pots filled with peat-free, multi-purpose compost. Keep the pots warm and water regularly until the roots fill the pot.
Growing Lemongrass from Seeds
Cultivating lemongrass from seeds can yield satisfying results. Start the seeds in a warm, humid environment, ideally at a temperature of 70–75°F to encourage germination. Using a heat mat can help maintain the ideal temperature.
Check out Green Thumb 101: the 6 must-have tools for seed starting for my favorite seed starting tools!
Remember, lemongrass seeds need light to germinate, so avoid covering them with soil.
Searching for lemongrass seeds? Find some at Eden Brothers or True Leaf Market.
Indoor Seed Starting
For indoor seed starting, follow these steps to sow lemongrass seeds:
- Use cell packs or flats and lightly cover the seeds with compost.
- Use a seed starting mix instead of garden soil.
- Maintain consistent moisture without overwatering to prevent mold growth.
A heat mat can ensure a stable temperature for faster germination.
Direct Sowing in the Garden
If you prefer direct sowing, wait until air temperatures reach 60°F. Loosen the garden soil to a depth of at least 6 inches, then sow the seeds and cover lightly with compost.
Mulching around the seedlings can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Care and Maintenance of Lemongrass
Lemongrass care encompasses regular watering, fertilization, and periodic pruning. Ensuring these elements are balanced will promote healthy, vigorous growth where lemongrass grows.
Watering Requirements
Lemongrass requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. In indoor settings, reduce watering to once every two weeks during winter months.
Mulching can help retain moist soil, ensuring moisture retention and deterring weeds.
Fertilizing Lemongrass
Fertilize lemongrass with a fish-based liquid fertilizer in late spring and again in early fall/autumn will provide the necessary nutrients for robust growth. Some people fertilize weekly during the growing season. My suggestion is to test what works best for your climate and yard.
Pruning and Harvesting
Prune lemongrass to maintain its shape and size, and to remove dead or diseased leaves. Harvest stalks once they are 12 inches tall and at least 1/2-inch thick, twisting and pulling them away from the main clump.
Growing Lemongrass in Containers
If you have limited garden space or wish to bring plants indoors during chilly winters, growing lemongrass plants in containers is an excellent choice.
This method also helps manage the plant’s vigorous growth.
Choosing the Right Pot
Select a 5-gallon container or a large pot at least 12 inches across to provide enough space for root expansion. Make sure to use a container that allows for growth, as lemongrass can spread quite a bit. Place the pot in a slightly protected location to prevent tipping in windy conditions.
Soil Mix for Containers
Use a well-drained sandy loam soil mix for container-grown lemongrass. This ensures healthy root systems and optimal growth.
Overwintering Lemongrass
To safeguard your lemongrass in winter, you can either bring the containers indoors or keep pruned plants in a cool, dark location. This is crucial for regions with cold winters.
Bringing Plants Indoors
Move container-grown lemongrass indoors when nighttime temperatures drop below 50°F. An unheated garage or shed can serve as a temporary home to protect the plants from freezing. I’ll bring the pots into my screen porch and cover them during cold snaps or the rare freeze in the Florida panhandle.
Winter Care Tips
During winter, place lemongrass in a bright, south-facing window and water sparingly to keep the soil barely moist with water lemongrass.
Lemongrass can also overwinter well in a dormant state in a cool, dark spot indoors.
Common Pests and Diseases
While lemongrass is pest-resistant, it isn’t entirely immune. Be on the lookout for aphids and spider mites, which can occasionally be a problem. A gentle spray of neem oil or insecticidal soap can help manage these pests. Additionally, ensure good air circulation around your plants to prevent fungal diseases, which thrive in damp, overcrowded conditions.
Harvesting and Using Lemongrass
Signs That Lemongrass is Ready for Harvesting
You’ll know your lemongrass is ready for harvest when the stalks are thick and firm, typically after 4 to 8 months of growth. Mature stalks should be about half an inch in diameter and have a fragrant aroma when cut. Harvesting encourages new growth, so be sure to check your plants regularly.
Techniques for Harvesting Lemongrass Without Damaging the Plant
To harvest, use sharp garden shears to cut the stalks close to the ground. Aim to take only about one-third of the stalks at any time, allowing the plant to regenerate. Regular trimming of the leaves can also encourage thicker stalk growth and maintain the plant’s neat appearance.
Uses of Lemongrass
Lemongrass’s remarkable versatility extends to its applications in culinary and medicinal fields. Its citrusy aroma and flavor make it a favorite in many dishes, while its antiseptic properties offer medicinal benefits.
Culinary Uses
Lemongrass is a superstar in the kitchen, lending its citrusy notes to soups, teas, marinades, and desserts. It adds a zingy, citrusy flavor to a variety of dishes, from Thai curries and soups to grilled meats and teas. Its tender white stalks can be chopped or frozen for later use. Try adding it to a homemade chicken soup, steeping it in hot water with honey for a soothing tea, or even making a vanilla lemongrass crème brûlée.
Medicinal Uses
Beyond the kitchen, lemongrass offers medicinal properties. It’s known for its ability to aid digestion and relieve stress. You can even use it in homemade skincare products for its refreshing scent and antibacterial properties.
Grow Lemongrass in your Garden
Cultivating lemongrass at home is a fulfilling endeavor that enhances both your garden and kitchen. With the right selection, planting, and care, you can enjoy fresh lemongrass year-round. Whether you’re a garden enthusiast or a culinary explorer, growing lemongrass brings a touch of the tropics to your home.
Share your own experiences with growing and using lemongrass in the comments below. Your stories and tips can inspire others!
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