How to Grow Lemongrass
Cymbopogon citratus
Lemongrass is a tropical grass that needs warmth (20C+) to thrive. In the UK, grow in large pots in the warmest, sunniest spot you have — a greenhouse or south-facing patio is ideal. Start from seed indoors in early spring with bottom heat, or propagate from supermarket stalks placed in water. Feed regularly and water well in summer. Harvest outer stalks when 1 cm thick at the base. Before the first frost, cut back and bring indoors to overwinter in a bright, frost-free room, or treat as an annual. The aromatic leaves make excellent tea even if stalks are too thin for cooking.
When to Start
Start seeds indoors 8 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures stay above 15°C and soil has warmed to at least 20°C.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Feed every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser during the growing season. Lemongrass is a hungry plant that benefits from regular feeding.
- Tropical plant that needs 20C+ to grow well. In the UK, treat as a tender annual or grow in pots and overwinter indoors. Can be propagated from supermarket stalks — place in water until roots form, then pot up. Needs a warm, sunny, sheltered position.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 20°C+
Pet Safety
- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 60 cm |
| Row spacing | 60 cm |
| Mature height | 100 cm |
| Mature spread | 60 cm |
Lemongrass forms large clumps. In the UK, grow in large pots (at least 30 cm diameter) so plants can be brought indoors for winter.
Pests & Diseases
Pest Red Spider Mite
Identification: Fine webbing on leaf undersides; tiny red-brown mites; leaves become speckled and yellow
- Mist plants regularly to raise humidity — mites hate moisture
- Introduce Phytoseiulus persimilis predatory mites in greenhouses
- Spray with fatty acid-based miticide if infestation is severe
Pest Aphids
Identification: Clusters of green aphids on young leaves; sticky honeydew
- Blast off with water
- Encourage natural predators
- Fatty acid spray if needed
Disease Lemongrass Rust Puccinia spp.
Symptoms: Orange-brown pustules on leaves; leaves may yellow and die back
Treatment: Remove and destroy affected leaves; improve air circulation
Prevention: Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; do not overcrowd plants
Disease Root Rot Pythium spp.
Symptoms: Yellowing leaves; wilting despite moist soil; mushy brown roots; plant collapses
Treatment: Remove affected plants; improve drainage; reduce watering
Prevention: Use well-draining compost; do not overwater; ensure pots have drainage holes
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 20°C |
| Base growth temperature | 15°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Lemongrass?
- Plant Lemongrass 60cm apart with 60cm between rows.
- When can I harvest Lemongrass?
- Lemongrass is ready to harvest approximately 90 days after transplanting.
- Is Lemongrass frost hardy?
- Lemongrass is classified as Tender.
