Lemon Grass is a fragrant herb prized for its citrusy flavor and versatile uses. Common in Asian cuisine, it’s perfect for soups, curries, and teas. The essential oil, rich in citral and geraniol, is also used in perfumes, aromatherapy, and as a natural insect repellent. Known for its anti-inflammatory benefits, Lemon Grass soothes digestive issues and supports overall wellness. A must-have for culinary and herbal gardens.
Lemongrass Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow lemongrass seeds outdoors in late spring, after the last frost date, when soil temperatures are consistently above 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Lemongrass thrives in warm weather and does not tolerate frost.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Lemongrass prefers a fertile, loamy soil but adapts well to sandy or clay soils if drainage is good.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches and incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility. Lemongrass grows best in soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 12-18 inches apart in rows or clusters.
- Thin seedlings to maintain proper spacing once they are a few inches tall.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist until seeds germinate, which typically takes 10-14 days. Lemongrass requires regular watering during early growth.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start lemongrass seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, placing 1-2 seeds per pot.
- Cover lightly with soil and mist gently to keep the soil evenly moist.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 10-14 days.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 65 degrees Fahrenheit and plants have at least 2-3 sets of true leaves. Space plants 12-18 inches apart.
General Care Tips for Lemongrass
- Sunlight: Provide full sun for best growth. Lemongrass requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods. Lemongrass benefits from regular watering to promote lush growth.
- Fertilizing: Enrich the soil with compost before planting. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season for optimal growth.
- Pruning: Trim outer leaves as needed for culinary use. Cut back plants in late fall to encourage fresh growth in the following season.
- Pest and Disease Control: Lemongrass is relatively pest- and disease-resistant. Proper spacing ensures good airflow, reducing the risk of fungal issues.
- Harvesting:
- For Stalks: Harvest stalks when they are at least 12 inches tall. Cut the stalks close to the ground, leaving the roots intact for regrowth.
- For Leaves: Snip leaves as needed for teas or garnishes. Harvest leaves early in the morning for the best flavor.
- Storage: Store fresh stalks and leaves in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Stalks can also be frozen or dried for long-term storage in an airtight container.
