How to Grow Lemongrass: Complete Guide to Fragrant, Flavorful Herbs

East Indian lemongrass is the most common culinary variety. It has a strong lemon flavor and is excellent for cooking, teas, and soups. It grows 2-3 feet tall.

West Indian lemongrass has a milder flavor and is more ornamental. It grows 3-4 feet tall and is often used in landscaping.

Citronella grass is a related plant that is used for its insect-repelling properties. It has a stronger, more pungent scent and is not typically used in cooking.

Choose East Indian lemongrass for the best culinary flavor. Look for plants labeled as culinary lemongrass.

Lemongrass needs full sun. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for the best growth.

Well-draining soil is essential. Lemongrass does not like wet feet and can develop root rot in poorly drained soil.

Lemongrass prefers rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Amend the soil with compost before planting.

Lemongrass is a tropical plant and is not frost-tolerant. In cold climates, it must be grown as an annual or overwintered indoors.

Lemongrass is excellent for herb gardens, container gardens, and tropical-themed gardens.

Plant lemongrass in spring after the last frost. The soil should be at least 60°F.

Lemongrass is best grown from divisions or starts. It can also be grown from supermarket stalks.

To grow from supermarket stalks, place the stalks in a glass of water until roots form. Then plant in soil.

Space plants 2-3 feet apart. Lemongrass grows into large clumps and needs room to spread.

Water well after planting to settle the soil around the roots.

Water lemongrass regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. Do not let the soil dry out completely.

Water at the base of the plant, not overhead, to prevent fungal diseases.

Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch around the plants. This retains moisture, keeps roots cool, and suppresses weeds.

Lemongrass is a heavy feeder. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10.

In containers, water more frequently because pots dry out faster.

Harvest lemongrass stalks when they are 1/2 inch thick. This is usually 3-4 months after planting.

Cut the stalks at the base, close to the ground. Select the thickest, healthiest stalks for harvest.

Remove the outer leaves and use the tender inner stem. The stem is the most flavorful part.

Lemongrass can be used fresh or dried. To dry, cut into small pieces and air dry in a cool, dark place.

Fresh lemongrass can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks.

Lemongrass is not frost-tolerant. In cold climates (Zones 3-8), it must be overwintered indoors.

Before the first frost, dig up the plant or bring containers indoors. Place in a sunny window with 6-8 hours of light.

Reduce watering in winter. Water only when the soil is dry. Lemongrass needs less water in winter.

In spring, after the last frost, move the plant back outdoors.

You can also take divisions from the plant and start new plants indoors for spring planting.

Division is the easiest way to propagate lemongrass. Dig up the clump and divide it into smaller sections. Each section should have roots and green growth.

You can also propagate lemongrass from supermarket stalks. Place the stalks in a glass of water with the bottom submerged. Roots will form in 1-2 weeks.

Once roots are 1-2 inches long, plant the stalk in well-draining soil.

Propagation is easiest in spring and summer when the plant is actively growing.

Aphids can attack lemongrass. Use insecticidal soap or a strong spray of water to control them.

Spider mites can appear in dry conditions. Increase humidity and use insecticidal soap.

Root rot occurs in poorly drained soil. Ensure good drainage and do not overwater.

Rust is a fungal disease that appears as orange spots on leaves. Remove affected leaves and improve air circulation.

Lemongrass may become leggy if it does not get enough sun. Move to a sunnier location.