Tools and Materials
What is Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a tropical herb that adds a citrus punch to your food. The plant usually grows to 2 to 4 feet tall.
Different Types of Lemongrass
East Indian Lemongrass
This type of lemongrass is known for its high concentration of essential oils and medicinal benefits. Compared to other lemongrass, it needs warmer climates. It is used more often in aromatherapy, including essential oils, perfumes, and soaps. It is edible and potable.
West Indian Lemongrass
West Indian Lemongrass is mainly used in Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. They grow well in cold zones, they might go dormant in winters but they grow back again when the season changes. They are also known as ornamental lemongrass.
Citronella Lemongrass
Citronella Lemongrass grows in slightly warmer regions and is mainly used for its citronella oil. It is also used in candles and mosquito repellent.
Java Citronella
Java Citronella is a compact form with yellowish-reddish foliage. It grows in zones 9-11 and is mainly used for its ornamental value and citronella oil.
While lemongrass is usually safe, some people and pets may have allergic reactions.
Where to Plant Lemongrass
Lemongrass grows well in tropical conditions. The minimum requirements below must be considered before you start growing lemongrass.
Sun exposure
Lemongrass needs a good amount of sunlight to grow well. Find a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, and avoid keeping it in the sun for more than 6 hours.
Weather Requirements
Make sure that the temperature required for lemongrass to grow well is above 55°F . If you live in a cooler region, consider container gardening indoors during the winter to provide a warmer environment for lemongrass.
Soil Requirements
Soggy roots are not needed for lemongrass. Choose well-draining soil, such as loams and rosy soil, that allows excess water to escape freely. Sandy loam or a mix with compost is a great option.
When to Plant Lemongrass
Before you plant lemongrass outdoors, wait until the risk of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures consistently reach 60°F. If starting from seeds, sow them indoors 3 weeks before the last frost. Lemongrass thrives in warm weather.
Plant the lemongrass outdoors and shift them indoors when the weather is freezing.
How to Plant Lemongrass
There are two ways to plant lemongrass: the first is by growing it from seed, and the other is through its stalk. You can follow these steps to plant lemongrass.
How to Grow Lemongrass from Seed
Step 1: Sow the seeds
Start by sowing seeds indoors in a moist, sterile potting mix, about 1/8 inch deep, three weeks before the last frost. Make sure to keep the seeds in a warm area with temperatures between 68°F and 75°F to ensure the soil stays consistently moist.
Step 3: Germination of seeds
Seeds will germinate in two to three weeks; once seedlings are three inches tall, harden them off and transplant outdoors.
How to Grow Lemongrass from Stalk
Make sure to plant lemongrass stalks 24-36 inches apart to allow for proper growth. For container planting, use sturdy pots to support the heavy top growth and prevent tipping.
Harvesting Lemongrass
To harvest lemongrass, wait till the stalks reach a height of about 12 inches, which usually takes 3-4 months after planting. When harvesting, cut the stalks near the base. There is no specific method to cut them using a sharp serrated knife. You can just hold the leaves at a suitable distance from ground and cut them, leaving a few inches of the plant to encourage continued growth and production of new stalks.
When using a sharp, serrated knife, keep your fingers away from the cutting path to avoid accidental cuts.
How to Care for Lemongrass
To care for lemongrass is very important once you have planted it. The more you care the better your lemongrass grows throughout the year, depending on your region’s climatic conditions and the type of lemongrass you select to grow. The process to care for lemongrass starts right from fertilizing to harvesting them.
Fertilizing
To have your lemongrass plants thrive and produce a good harvest, fertilize them once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer. This will provide the essential nutrients they need for optimal growth.
Winter Protection
To protect your lemongrass plants from frost in colder climates, cover them with mulch or bring them indoors during the winter months. This will help them survive the cold temperatures and resume growth in the spring.