How to Grow Lemongrass
Get Your Exact Lemongrass Planting Dates
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🛠️ Supplies You'll Need
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🌿 Plant Overview
☀️ Growing Requirements
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Sun
Full Sun (6-8 hours)
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Water
Moderate-High (1-2 inches/week)
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Spacing
24" apart
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Depth
0.5" deep
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Height
36-60"
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Germination
10-21 days
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🌾 Seed Saving Guide
🪴 Vegetative propagationPropagate vegetatively, not by seed
Lemongrass rarely flowers in temperate climates. Propagate by dividing clumps in spring.
Division is the standard propagation method — separate outer stalks with roots attached and replant.
Raised Bed Planting Guides
A 4×8 bed fits 8 plants of Lemongrass. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →
Lemongrass Planting Calendar by Zone
Lemongrass Planting Calendar by State
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Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lemongrass? +
Start Lemongrass seeds indoors 10 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 4 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.
How long does Lemongrass take to grow? +
Lemongrass typically matures in about 100 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.
Should I start Lemongrass indoors or direct sow? +
Lemongrass should be started indoors 10 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.
How much sun does Lemongrass need? +
Lemongrass requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.
How far apart should I plant Lemongrass? +
Space Lemongrass plants 24 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.
How much water does Lemongrass need? +
Lemongrass has moderate-high (1-2 inches/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.
Can you save seeds from Lemongrass? +
Lemongrass is not typically propagated by seed. Lemongrass rarely flowers in temperate climates. Propagate by dividing clumps in spring. Division is the standard propagation method — separate outer stalks with roots attached and replant.
About Lemongrass
Tropical grass with intense lemon flavor and aroma, essential in Thai and Vietnamese cooking. Treat as annual in Zone 8 and below or overwinter indoors. Also a natural mosquito repellent.
Expect your Lemongrass to be ready for harvest in approximately 100 days from planting.
Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.