How to Grow Lemongrass: The Complete Guide

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a easy-to-grow warm-season herb that thrives in USDA zones 8-11 (annual elsewhere). With the right soil, sunlight, and care, you can harvest fresh lemongrass in as little as 75+ days. This guide covers everything you need to know about growing lemongrass at home—from planting to harvest.

Overview

Lemongrass brings vibrant Southeast Asian flavors to the garden with its intensely citrusy stalks essential for Thai soups, curries, and teas. This tropical grass grows into dramatic 3-4 foot clumps and is surprisingly easy to start from a store-bought stalk.

When and How to Plant Lemongrass

Start indoors: Start from grocery store stalks in water. Lemongrass needs full sun and rich, moist, ph 6.0-7.0 to thrive. Plant seeds at Set divisions at soil level depth with 24-36 in between plants.

• Sowing depth: Set divisions at soil level
• Plant spacing: 24-36 in
• Germination time: N/A (grown from divisions)
• Days to harvest: 75+ days
• Best soil: Rich, moist, pH 6.0-7.0
• Season: Warm season — zones 8-11 (annual elsewhere)

Care and Maintenance

Lemongrass requires regular watering and full sun. Consistent moisture is especially important during hot summer months when evaporation is high.

• Watering: Regular — water deeply at the base, not overhead, to prevent leaf disease
• Mulching: Apply 2-3 inches of straw or shredded leaves to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Feeding: Apply balanced organic fertilizer or compost tea every 3-4 weeks during active growth
• Watch for deficiencies: Yellow leaves = nitrogen, purple stems = phosphorus, brown leaf edges = potassium

Pro Tips

Buy a fresh stalk from the grocery store, place in water until roots form, then plant. In cold zones, pot up and bring indoors before frost—it makes a great houseplant.

Companion Planting for Lemongrass

Companion planting improves lemongrass health and yield by attracting beneficial insects, repelling pests, and improving soil. Plant lemongrass alongside these proven companions:

Avoid planting near: These plants compete for nutrients, attract the same pests, or inhibit lemongrass growth:

Common Pests and Diseases

Watch for these common problems when growing lemongrass. Early identification and organic prevention methods are key to keeping your plants healthy:

Learn more in our Organic Pest Control Guide.

Harvesting and Storage

Knowing when to harvest lemongrass is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Lemongrass is typically ready to harvest in 75+ days from planting.

• Harvest timing: Most home gardeners find that harvesting slightly early produces better flavor than letting crops over-mature
• Best time of day: Harvest in the morning when plants are cool and turgid for longest shelf life
• Storage: See our Harvesting and Preserving Guide for freezing, canning, and drying methods

Recommended Varieties

These are the best lemongrass varieties for home gardeners, selected for flavor, disease resistance, and ease of growing:

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemongrass

How long does it take to grow lemongrass?

Lemongrass takes 75+ days from planting to harvest. Germination takes N/A (grown from divisions). Start indoors start from grocery store stalks in water for earlier harvests.

What zones can you grow lemongrass in?

Lemongrass grows well in USDA hardiness zones 8-11 (annual elsewhere). It is a warm-season crop that needs full sun.

What should I plant next to lemongrass?

Good companions for lemongrass include Tomatoes, Peppers, Citrus. Avoid planting near None significant.

How much sun does lemongrass need?

Lemongrass requires full sun. Plant in rich, moist, ph 6.0-7.0 with 24-36 in spacing between plants.

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