Grow Your Own Lemongrass: A Beginner’s Guide

There’s something special about growing your own herbs at home. Not only do you get access to fresh ingredients whenever you need them, but you also save money and enjoy the satisfaction of nurturing your own plants.

Lemongrass, with its refreshing citrus aroma and versatility in cooking and herbal teas, is one of the easiest herbs to grow.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully grow lemongrass. 

Why Grow Your Own Lemongrass?

Growing lemongrass at home has many benefits. First, it ensures you always have fresh, organic stalks on hand for teas, soups, and stir-fries. Store-bought lemongrass can sometimes be wilted or overly dry, but when you grow your own, you get peak freshness every time.

It’s also cost-effective. Instead of buying new stalks for every recipe, you can cultivate a plant that keeps providing for months, even years. Plus, lemongrass is packed with antioxidants and essential oils, making it a great addition to a healthy lifestyle.

How to Grow Lemongrass: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Choose Your Lemongrass Source

There are two common ways to grow lemongrass:

1. From Store-Bought Stalks – Fresh lemongrass stalks from a grocery store or farmer’s market can be rooted in water and planted in soil.

2. From Seeds – Growing from seeds takes longer but is a good option if fresh stalks aren’t available.

Step 2: Rooting Lemongrass Stalks in Water

If starting from stalks, follow these simple steps:

1. Select healthy, firm lemongrass stalks with the base intact.

2. Place them in a glass of water, ensuring the bottom inch is submerged.

3. Set the glass in a warm, sunny spot (like a windowsill).

4. To ensure freshness, change the water every 2-3 days.

5. In about 2 weeks, you should see roots forming at the base. Once the roots are about 2 inches long, your lemongrass is ready to plant in the soil.

Step 3: Planting Lemongrass in Soil

Once your lemongrass has rooted (or if planting from seeds), follow these steps:

1. Choose a large pot (if growing indoors) or a well-draining garden bed (if growing outdoors).

2. Use rich, well-draining soil mixed with compost to promote healthy growth.

3. Plant-rooted stalks about 2 inches deep into the soil. For seeds, sow them just below the surface and lightly cover them with soil.

4. Space multiple plants at least 2 feet apart to allow for bushy growth.

5. Water thoroughly after planting.

Step 4: Providing the Right Growing Conditions

Lemongrass thrives when given the right care:

• Sunlight: It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

• Watering: Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water regularly, especially in hot weather.

• Temperature: Prefers warm climates (above 60°F/16°C). If temperatures drop, bring potted lemongrass indoors.

Step 5: Caring for Your Lemongrass

To keep your lemongrass healthy and thriving:

• Fertilize: Feed with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every few weeks for stronger growth.

• Trim Dead Leaves: Regularly remove dried or yellowing leaves to encourage new shoots.

• Report as Needed: If growing in a pot, repot every 1-2 years as the plant expands.

Harvesting & Storing Lemongrass

Lemongrass is ready to harvest when the stalks are about 12 inches tall and ½ inch thick. Use garden shears or a sharp knife to cut stalks at the base, leaving the roots intact so the plant continues to grow.

Fresh lemongrass can be stored:

• In the fridge: Wrapped in plastic or placed in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

• In the freezer: Chopped lemongrass can be frozen in small portions for several months.

• Dried for later use: If you prefer dried herbs, check out our organic dried lemongrass for a convenient, flavorful alternative.

How to Use Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a staple in many cuisines, adding a bright, citrusy note to dishes. It’s commonly used in Thai and Vietnamese recipes, infusing broths, curries, and stir-fries with its signature aroma.

One of the easiest ways to enjoy lemongrass is by making herbal tea. Simply steep fresh or dried lemongrass in hot water for a soothing drink that can aid digestion and boost the immune system.  You can also make a stronger infusion, add sugar, and preserve as simple syrup.

Lemongrass also makes a great addition to homemade essential oils and natural insect repellents. The plant contains citronella, which is known for keeping mosquitoes away.  It is a primary ingredient in our Bugs Away formula.

If you enjoy experimenting with different herbs, don’t forget to explore our herbs collection to find more organic, high-quality herbal products for your kitchen and wellness needs.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Lemongrass is generally resistant to pests, but occasional issues can arise. If you notice aphids or spider mites, a simple spray of neem oil or soapy water can help keep them at bay. Rust fungus, which appears as orange spots on leaves, can be managed by improving air circulation around the plant.

If your lemongrass isn’t growing as expected, check that it’s getting enough sunlight and water. Weak or spindly growth is often a sign of too much shade or not enough nutrients.

Explore More Herbs for Your Garden

Lemongrass is just one of many wonderful herbs you can grow at home. If you’re interested in expanding your herb garden, check out our herbs collection for more organic, high-quality herbal products.

Start Growing Your Own Lemongrass Today!

Growing lemongrass at home is a simple and rewarding experience. With just a little care, you can enjoy fresh, aromatic stalks for cooking, tea, and natural remedies. Whether you plant it in your garden or keep a pot on your windowsill, lemongrass is a fantastic herb to have on hand.

And when fresh lemongrass isn’t available, our organic dried lemongrass herb is a perfect alternative—ready to use whenever you need it.

So why not start growing your own lemongrass today? Your kitchen, your garden, and your taste buds will thank you!