Lemongrass Seeds
When should I plant
Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost, sowing in warm soil or seed trays, as lemongrass requires warm temperatures to germinate.
Site consideration
Plant lemongrass in full sun with well-drained, fertile soil. It prefers slightly sandy or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 and does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
Water
Lemongrass requires consistent moisture with regular watering to keep soil evenly hydrated but not waterlogged. Water deeply 2–3 times a week, especially in summer, because pots dry out quickly. Seedlings need daily misting, while established plants benefit from deep, regular watering to prevent leaf browning.
Sunlight
Lemongrass requires full sun to grow well. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, and in hot climates, provide some protection from harsh afternoon sun.
Transplant
Lemongrass does well in containers. When transplanting, place seedlings in a 5-gallon container or larger area protected from the wind. Because lemongrass can grow tall, pots may easily tip over if not secured.
Seed Germination
Seeds germinate in 10–21 days. Lightly press them into the soil without covering them deeply, and maintain warm, humid conditions to improve germination.
Other Elements
Fertilization
Feed lemongrass with a high-nitrogen fertilizer, such as alfalfa meal or blood meal, when transplant outdoors. Mix 1/2 cup of the fertilizer into the soil before transplanting. After transplanting, fertilize lemongrass every couple of weeks during the growing season with a liquid plant food or fish emulsion.
Harvest
Lemongrass is ready to harvest when stalks are at least 1/2 inch thick, dark green, and 18 inches or taller. Cut the entire stalk at its base, wearing gloves to prevent skin irritation. At the end of the growing season, trim plants back to 6 inches, reduce watering, and stop fertilizing. Keep soil lightly moist and move the plant to a bright, frost-protected location. Resume regular watering and fertilizing when new growth appears in spring.
Weed control
To control weeds near lemongrass, apply a 4-6 inch layer of organic mulch, such as bark, wood chips, or straw, keeping it slightly away from the base of the stalks to prevent rot. For persistent weeds, use sheet mulching (cardboard covered with mulch) or carefully hand-pull weeds, taking care not to damage shallow root.
Seed Storage
The seeds will maintain a high germination percentage if stored under proper conditions. How long your seeds remain viable will depend on the temperature and moisture levels the seeds are exposed to. Seeds which are improperly stored will quickly deteriorate if unprotected against high humidity and dramatic temperature fluctuations day after day.
For best results, keep the seed in our moisture-proof ziplock sealing bags, which provide a better moisture prevention effect. Glass jar or plastic containers with snap-on lids works well too, add a packet of desiccant before sealing into the seed, such as silica gel to remove any moisture remains in the storage container. Seed stored under these conditions will remain viable for as long as years.
Factors Which commonly Cause Poor Results
1. Improper drainage soil
2. Sowing depth more than one inch
3. Covering the seed too deep beneath the soil surface
4. Cover a large area with a small amount of seed.
5. Plant at a wrong time of a year
6. Lack of sunlight
7. Inadequate rainfall after seed germination. The area should not be allowed to become completely dry. Supplemental watering may be required to sustain plant life.
8. Extreme weather conditions: hail, drought, excessive rainfall, floods, unseasonably cold temperatures.