How to Grow Lemongrass from Seed: A Complete Guide

Lemongrass is a perennial grass that has a citrusy smell and taste and is used in many Asian dishes and beauty products. It is also known for its health benefits, such as improving digestion, boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, and relieving stress.

Growing lemongrass from seed is a rewarding and fun project that anyone can do with some patience and care. You can grow lemongrass from seed indoors, in pots, in water, or in the ground depending on your preference and climate. You can also harvest your own lemongrass stalks and use them in cooking or making tea.

In this article, you will learn how to grow lemongrass from seed in different methods, how long does it take for lemongrass to grow from seeds, is lemongrass easy to grow from seeds, best soil for growing lemongrass, water requirement for growing lemongrass, best fertilizer for growing lemongrass, how to harvest lemongrass, how to use lemongrass in cooking, and benefits of lemongrass for health and beauty.

Key Takeaways

• Lemongrass can be harvested when it reaches about a foot or two feet tall depending on the variety and the growing method
• Lemongrass can be used in various cuisines and dishes, such as soups, curries, salads, stir-fries, marinades, sauces, teas, etc.
• Lemongrass has many benefits for health and beauty due to its high content of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and essential oils

How to Grow Lemongrass from Seed Indoors

Growing lemongrass from seed indoors is a good option for people who live in cold or frosty climates or who don’t have enough outdoor space. You can start your seeds anytime of the year and enjoy fresh lemongrass all year round.

Here are the materials and tools you will need for growing lemongrass from seed indoors:

• Lemongrass seeds
• Small pots or seed trays
• Potting soil or seed starting mix
• Water
• Fertilizer
• Scissors
• Larger pots

Here are the steps for growing lemongrass from seed indoors:

1. Prepare the seeds for germination by soaking them in water for 24 hours. This will help them sprout faster and easier.
2. Sow the seeds in moist soil and cover them lightly with more soil. You can use small pots or seed trays for this step. Make sure to label them with the date and variety of lemongrass.
3. Place the pots in a warm and sunny spot and water them regularly. You can use a windowsill or a grow light for this step. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. The seeds should germinate within 10 to 14 days.
4. Transplant the seedlings to larger pots when they have at least four leaves. You can use any pot that is at least 8 inches in diameter and has drainage holes. Fill the pot with potting soil or potting mix and make a hole in the center. Carefully remove the seedling from its original pot and place it in the hole. Gently press the soil around the roots and water well.
5. Prune and harvest the lemongrass stalks when they are about a foot tall. You can use scissors or a knife to cut the stalks at the base. Leave about an inch of stalk above the soil level to encourage new growth. You can use the fresh stalks in cooking or store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

Wow! You did it! You successfully grew your own lemongrass from seed indoors! Isn’t that amazing?

How to Grow Lemongrass from Seed in Pots

Growing lemongrass from seed in pots is a good option for people who want to move their plants around or who want to grow different varieties of lemongrass. You can grow lemongrass from seed in pots outdoors or indoors depending on your preference and climate.

Here are the materials and tools you will need for growing lemongrass from seed in pots:

• Lemongrass seeds
• Small pots or seed trays
• Potting soil or seed starting mix
• Water
• Fertilizer
• Scissors
• Larger pots
• Stakes

Here are the steps for growing lemongrass from seed in pots:

1. Prepare the seeds for germination by soaking them in water for 24 hours. This will help them sprout faster and easier.
2. Sow the seeds in moist soil and cover them lightly with more soil. You can use small pots or seed trays for this step. Make sure to label them with the date and variety of lemongrass.
3. Place the pots in a sunny and sheltered spot and water them regularly. You can use a balcony, a patio, or a garden for this step. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. The seeds should germinate within 10 to 14 days.
4. Stake the lemongrass plants when they are about a foot tall to support their growth. You can use any stake that is at least 2 feet long and sturdy enough to hold the plants. Insert the stake into the soil near the base of the plant and tie the stalk to the stake with a soft string or cloth. Do not tie too tightly or too loosely as this may damage or strangle the plant.
5. Prune and harvest the lemongrass stalks when they are about two feet tall. You can use scissors or a knife to cut the stalks at the base. Leave about an inch of stalk above the soil level to encourage new growth. You can use the fresh stalks in cooking or store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

Awesome! You did it! You successfully grew your own lemongrass from seed in pots! Isn’t that wonderful?

How to Grow Lemongrass from Seed in Water

Growing lemongrass from seed in water is a good option for people who want to experiment with hydroponics or who want to grow lemongrass indoors without soil. You can grow lemongrass from seed in water in any glass jar or bottle that can hold water and lemongrass seeds.

Here are the materials and tools you will need for growing lemongrass from seed in water:

• Lemongrass seeds
• Glass jars or bottles
• Water
• Liquid fertilizer
• Scissors

Here are the steps for growing lemongrass from seed in water:

1. Prepare the seeds for germination by soaking them in water for 24 hours. This will help them sprout faster and easier.
2. Place the seeds in glass jars or bottles filled with water and a few drops of liquid fertilizer. You can use any jar or bottle that is clean and transparent. Make sure to leave some space at the top for air circulation.
3. Change the water every few days and add more fertilizer as needed. You can use tap water or filtered water for this step. Keep the water level above the seeds and roots at all times.
4. Transplant the seedlings to larger jars or bottles when they have at least four leaves. You can use any jar or bottle that can accommodate the growth of lemongrass. Make sure to rinse the roots gently before transferring them to the new container.
5. Prune and harvest the lemongrass stalks when they are about a foot tall. You can use scissors or a knife to cut the stalks at the base. Leave about an inch of stalk above the water level to encourage new growth. You can use the fresh stalks in cooking or store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

Amazing! You did it! You successfully grew your own lemongrass from seed in water! Isn’t that incredible?

How to Grow Lemongrass from Seed in Australia

Growing lemongrass from seed in Australia is a good option for people who live in warm and humid climates or who want to grow lemongrass outdoors in the ground. You can grow lemongrass from seed in Australia in spring or summer when the temperature is above 15°C.

Here are the materials and tools you will need for growing lemongrass from seed in Australia:

• Lemongrass seeds
• Soil
• Water
• Fertilizer
• Mulch

Here are the steps for growing lemongrass from seed in Australia:

1. Prepare the seeds for germination by soaking them in water for 24 hours. This will help them sprout faster and easier.
2. Sow the seeds in well-drained and fertile soil and cover them lightly with more soil. You can use any spot that gets full sun and has good drainage. Make sure to space the seeds about 10 cm apart.
3. Water the seeds regularly and keep the soil moist but not soggy. You can use a hose or a sprinkler for this step. Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day to prevent evaporation and scorching.
4. Thin out the seedlings when they have at least four leaves and leave about a foot of space between each plant. You can use a trowel or your hands for this step. Discard or transplant the excess seedlings to another spot or pot.
5. Mulch the soil around the plants to retain moisture and prevent weeds. You can use any organic material such as straw, grass clippings, bark, etc. for this step. Make sure to leave some space around the base of each plant to avoid rotting.
6. Fertilize the plants every month with a balanced organic fertilizer. You can use any fertilizer that has equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 for this step. Follow the instructions on the label and apply it evenly around each plant.
7. Prune and harvest the lemongrass stalks when they are about two feet tall. You can use scissors or a knife to cut the stalks at the base. Leave about an inch of stalk above the soil level to encourage new growth. You can use the fresh stalks in cooking or store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

Fantastic! You did it! You successfully grew your own lemongrass from seed in Australia! Isn’t that awesome?

How Long Does It Take for Lemongrass to Grow from Seeds

The time it takes for lemongrass to grow from seeds depends on several factors, such as:

• The variety of lemongrass: There are different varieties of lemongrass, such as East Indian, West Indian, Thai, etc. Each variety has different characteristics and growth rates. For example, East Indian lemongrass is more cold-tolerant and faster-growing than West Indian lemongrass.
• The quality of the seeds: The quality of the seeds affects the germination rate and the vigor of the seedlings. Fresh and high-quality seeds have a higher chance of sprouting and growing faster than old or low-quality seeds.
• The growing conditions: The growing conditions affect the growth and development of lemongrass. Factors such as temperature, sunlight, water, soil, fertilizer, etc. can influence the speed and health of lemongrass growth. For example, lemongrass grows faster in warm and humid climates than in cold and dry climates.
• The care given to the plants: The care given to the plants affects the growth and yield of lemongrass. Factors such as watering, fertilizing, pruning, harvesting, etc. can influence the quality and quantity of lemongrass stalks. For example, lemongrass produces more stalks if it is watered and fertilized regularly and pruned and harvested frequently.

Here are some general estimates of how long it takes for lemongrass to grow from seeds under different scenarios:

As you can see, growing lemongrass from seed is not a quick or easy process. It requires patience and perseverance to see the results. But trust me, it is worth it! You will be rewarded with fresh and fragrant lemongrass that you can use in many ways.

Is Lemongrass Easy to Grow from Seeds

Lemongrass is relatively easy to grow from seeds if you provide the right conditions and care for it. However, it is not without its challenges and problems. Here are some of the common challenges and problems that might occur when growing lemongrass from seed and how to overcome them:

• Poor germination rate: This might happen due to old or low-quality seeds or improper sowing methods. To avoid this, buy fresh and high-quality seeds from reputable sources and sow them in moist soil after soaking them in water for 24 hours.
• Slow growth: This might happen due to lack of sunlight, water, or fertilizer or exposure to cold temperatures or winds. To avoid this, provide adequate sunlight, water, and fertilizer for optimal growth and protect the plants from frost with covers or moving them indoors if possible.
• Pest or disease infestation: This might happen due to overwatering, overcrowding, or poor hygiene. To avoid this, control pests and diseases with natural remedies or organic pesticides and keep the plants well-spaced and clean.
• Frost damage: This might happen due to exposure to cold temperatures or winds that can kill or damage the plants. To avoid this, protect the plants from frost with covers or moving them indoors if possible.

As you can see, growing lemongrass from seed is not a walk in the park. It requires attention and care to prevent or solve these challenges and problems. But don’t worry, you can do it! You have the skills and knowledge to grow your own lemongrass from seed successfully.

Best Soil for Growing Lemongrass

Lemongrass prefers well-drained and fertile soil that is rich in organic matter and has a pH of around 6.5. The type of soil you use for growing lemongrass can affect its growth and health.

Here are some examples of what kind of soil is suitable for growing lemongrass:

• Loamy soil: This is a type of soil that has a good balance of sand, silt, and clay particles and retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. It is ideal for growing lemongrass as it provides enough drainage, aeration, and nutrients for the plants. Loamy soil is like a sponge that can hold water and air for lemongrass to thrive.
• Sandy soil: This is a type of soil that has large particles and drains quickly. It is suitable for growing lemongrass as it prevents root rot and fungal infection. However, sandy soil needs more organic matter and fertilizer to improve its fertility. Sandy soil is like a sieve that lets water and air pass through easily for lemongrass to breathe.
• Potting mix: This is a type of soil that is specially formulated for container gardening and has added nutrients and perlite or vermiculite for drainage and aeration. It is suitable for growing lemongrass in pots as it provides optimal conditions for the plants. Potting mix is like a cake that has all the ingredients for lemongrass to grow.

Here are some examples of what kind of soil is unsuitable for growing lemongrass:

• Clay soil: This is a type of soil that has small particles and holds too much water and becomes compacted and hard when dry. It is unsuitable for growing lemongrass as it causes poor drainage, low oxygen, and nutrient deficiency or toxicity. Clay soil is like a brick that traps water and air and suffocates lemongrass.
• Saline soil: This is a type of soil that has high levels of salt that can inhibit plant growth and cause nutrient deficiencies or toxicity. It is unsuitable for growing lemongrass as it affects its pH level and nutrient availability. Saline soil is like a salt shaker that sprinkles salt on lemongrass and burns it.
• Acidic soil: This is a type of soil that has a pH below 6.0 that can affect the availability of nutrients and cause yellowing or stunted growth of lemongrass. It is unsuitable for growing lemongrass as it needs a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. Acidic soil is like a lemon that squeezes acid on lemongrass and withers it.

As you can see, the type of soil you use for growing lemongrass can make or break your success. Choose the right soil for your lemongrass plants and they will reward you with lush and fragrant stalks.

Water Requirement for Growing Lemongrass

Lemongrass needs regular watering to keep the soil moist but not soggy. The amount and frequency of watering depend on the weather and the type of soil.

Here are some guidelines on how much and how often to water lemongrass:

• Watering once or twice a week depending on the weather and the type of soil. You can use a hose or a watering can for this step.
• Watering deeply and thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom of the pot or the ground. You can use your finger or a moisture meter to check the soil moisture before watering.
• Watering in the morning or evening to avoid evaporation and scorching. You can also use a mulch to conserve moisture and prevent weeds.
• Watering less frequently in winter or when the plants are dormant. You can reduce watering to once every two weeks or when the soil feels dry.

Here are some signs of overwatering or underwatering lemongrass:

• Overwatering: yellowing or wilting of leaves, root rot, fungal infection, pest infestation
• Underwatering: browning or curling of leaves, stunted growth, dry and brittle stalks

Here are some tips and solutions for avoiding overwatering or underwatering lemongrass:

• Checking the soil moisture with your finger or a moisture meter before watering
• Using well-drained and porous soil or potting mix that does not retain too much water
• Adding organic mulch to the soil surface to conserve moisture and prevent weeds
• Using a drip irrigation system or a self-watering pot to automate watering and reduce water wastage

As you can see, watering lemongrass is not rocket science. It just requires some common sense and observation. Water your lemongrass plants properly and they will grow healthy and happy.

Best Fertilizer for Growing Lemongrass

Lemongrass needs regular fertilizing to boost its growth and yield. The type of fertilizer you use for growing lemongrass can affect its quality and quantity.

Here are some examples of what kind of fertilizer is suitable for growing lemongrass:

• Organic fertilizer: This is a type of fertilizer that is made from natural materials such as compost, manure, seaweed, fish emulsion, etc. and provides a balanced amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) as well as micronutrients and beneficial microbes for lemongrass. It is ideal for growing lemongrass as it improves the soil quality, the plant health, and the flavor and aroma of the stalks. Organic fertilizer is like a buffet that offers a variety of food for lemongrass to enjoy.
• Synthetic fertilizer: This is a type of fertilizer that is made from chemical compounds such as urea, ammonium nitrate, superphosphate, etc. and provides a high amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) for lemongrass. It is suitable for growing lemongrass as it stimulates the growth and yield of the plants. However, it may also cause salt buildup, nutrient imbalance, or environmental pollution if used excessively. Synthetic fertilizer is like a fast food that gives a quick boost for lemongrass to grow.

Here are some examples of what kind of fertilizer is unsuitable for growing lemongrass:

• Fertilizer that is too acidic or too alkaline for lemongrass and may affect its pH level and nutrient availability. You can use a pH meter or a pH test kit to check the pH level of the soil or the fertilizer before applying it.
• Fertilizer that is too high in nitrogen for lemongrass and may cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of stalk development. You can use a fertilizer that has a lower ratio of nitrogen to phosphorus and potassium (NPK) such as 5-10-10 or 10-20-20 for this step.
• Fertilizer that is too low in phosphorus or potassium for lemongrass and may cause poor root growth or weak stalks. You can use a fertilizer that has a higher ratio of phosphorus and potassium to nitrogen (NPK) such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 for this step.

As you can see, the type of fertilizer you use for growing lemongrass can make a difference in your results. Choose the right fertilizer for your lemongrass plants and they will reward you with abundant and aromatic stalks.

How to Harvest Lemongrass

Lemongrass can be harvested when it reaches about a foot or two feet tall depending on the variety and the growing method. You can harvest your own lemongrass stalks and use them in cooking or making tea.

Here are some guidelines on how to harvest lemongrass:

• Harvesting only the outer stalks that are mature and thick enough to use and leaving the inner stalks to grow further. You can harvest about one-third of the plant at a time without harming it.
• Harvesting by cutting the stalks at the base with a sharp knife or scissors or by pulling them out gently with your hands. You can also cut off the leaves if you want to use them as well.
• Harvesting in the morning or evening when the plant is most fragrant and juicy. You can also harvest after a rain or watering to get the best flavor and aroma.
• Harvesting as needed throughout the growing season or storing the harvested stalks in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. You can wrap the stalks in plastic bags or foil and keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to six months.

Here are some tips and benefits of harvesting lemongrass:

• Harvesting regularly to encourage new growth and prevent overcrowding or flowering of lemongrass
• Harvesting only what you need and using fresh lemongrass for maximum flavor and aroma
• Harvesting both the leaves and the stalks of lemongrass as they have different uses and benefits
• Harvesting your own lemongrass instead of buying it from the store to save money and enjoy its freshness and quality

As you can see, harvesting lemongrass is not complicated. It just requires some timing and technique. Harvest your own lemongrass stalks and enjoy their many uses and benefits.

How to Use Lemongrass in Cooking

Lemongrass is a versatile herb that can be used in various cuisines and dishes, such as soups, curries, salads, stir-fries, marinades, sauces, teas, etc. It adds a citrusy and refreshing note to dishes that may otherwise be heavy or spicy.

Here are some examples of how to use lemongrass in cooking:

• Using the lower part of the stalk that is tender and juicy and discarding the upper part that is tough and fibrous. You can use a knife or a peeler to remove the outer layers of the stalk and chop, slice, or grate the inner core.
• Bruising or smashing the stalk with a knife or a pestle to release its flavor and aroma. You can also tie the stalk into a knot or a bundle to make it easier to remove later.
• Adding the stalk whole or in pieces to soups, curries, or stocks and removing it before serving. You can also use a cheesecloth or a tea infuser to hold the stalk and prevent it from floating around.
• Blending the stalk with other ingredients such as garlic, ginger, chili, lime, etc. to make a paste or a marinade. You can use a blender or a food processor for this step. You can also store the paste or marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.
• Drying or freezing the stalk for longer storage and rehydrating or thawing it before use. You can use an oven, a dehydrator, or a microwave to dry the stalk and store it in an airtight jar or bag. You can also freeze the stalk in ice cube trays or ziplock bags and use them as needed.

Here are some tips and benefits of using lemongrass in cooking:

• Using fresh lemongrass for maximum flavor and aroma and avoiding dried or powdered lemongrass that may have lost its potency. You can buy fresh lemongrass from Asian markets or grow your own lemongrass from seed.
• Using lemongrass sparingly as it has a strong and dominant taste that may overpower other flavors. You can start with a small amount and adjust according to your preference and taste.
• Using lemongrass to enhance the flavor and aroma of dishes without adding extra calories or fat. Lemongrass has only 99 calories per 100 grams and is low in fat and cholesterol.
• Using lemongrass to add a citrusy and refreshing note to dishes that may otherwise be heavy or spicy. Lemongrass can balance out the richness and heat of dishes such as coconut milk-based curries, meat-based stews, or chili-based sauces.

As you can see, using lemongrass in cooking is not difficult. It just requires some preparation and creativity. Use your own lemongrass stalks in cooking and enjoy their many flavors and aromas.

Benefits of Lemongrass for Health and Beauty

Lemongrass has many benefits for health and beauty due to its high content of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and essential oils. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cosmetics for various purposes.

Here are some examples of the benefits of lemongrass for health and beauty:

• Improving digestion and relieving stomach problems such as bloating, cramps, nausea, etc. Lemongrass has antispasmodic, carminative, and digestive properties that help relax the muscles of the digestive tract, expel gas, and stimulate digestion.
• Boosting immunity and fighting infections due to its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Lemongrass has citral, geraniol, limonene, and other compounds that inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms and enhance the activity of white blood cells.
• Reducing inflammation and pain due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Lemongrass has citronellol, eugenol, myrcene, and other compounds that reduce swelling, redness, heat, and pain caused by injuries, arthritis, gout, etc.
• Lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels due to its hypotensive and hypolipidemic effects. Lemongrass has potassium, magnesium, calcium, and other minerals that help regulate blood pressure and prevent hypertension. It also has polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, and other antioxidants that help lower cholesterol levels and prevent atherosclerosis.
• Relieving stress and anxiety due to its sedative and calming effects. Lemongrass has nerol, linalool, citronellal, and other compounds that act on the central nervous system and induce relaxation, sleepiness, and mood improvement.
• Promoting skin health and beauty due to its astringent, cleansing, and toning properties. Lemongrass has vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, zinc, copper, iron, manganese, and other nutrients that help nourish, cleanse, and tone the skin. It also has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent and treat acne, fungal infections, and skin irritations.
• Repelling insects and pests due to its citronella-like scent. Lemongrass has citral, geraniol, limonene, and other compounds that repel mosquitoes, flies, ants, and other insects and pests. It also has insecticidal and larvicidal properties that kill or inhibit the growth of insect larvae.

Here are some tips and precautions for using lemongrass for health and beauty:

• Consulting a doctor before using lemongrass if you have any medical conditions or allergies or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Lemongrass may interact with some medications or cause allergic reactions or side effects in some people.
• Doing a patch test before applying lemongrass oil on your skin to check for any adverse reactions. Apply a small amount of diluted lemongrass oil on your inner elbow or wrist and wait for 24 hours. If you experience any itching, burning, redness, or swelling, do not use lemongrass oil on your skin.
• Diluting lemongrass oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or olive oil before using it on your skin or hair. Lemongrass oil is very concentrated and potent and may cause irritation or damage if used undiluted. A general rule is to use one drop of lemongrass oil per teaspoon of carrier oil.
• Avoiding contact with your eyes or mucous membranes when using lemongrass oil as it may cause irritation or burning sensation. If you accidentally get lemongrass oil in your eyes or mucous membranes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention if needed.

As you can see, lemongrass has many benefits for health and beauty that you can enjoy by growing your own lemongrass from seed.

Conclusion

In this article, you learned how to grow lemongrass from seed in different methods, how long does it take for lemongrass to grow from seeds, is lemongrass easy to grow from seeds, best soil for growing lemongrass, water requirement for growing lemongrass, best fertilizer for growing lemongrass, how to harvest lemongrass, how to use lemongrass in cooking, and benefits of lemongrass for health and beauty.

Growing lemongrass from seed is a rewarding and fun project that anyone can do with some patience and care. You can grow lemongrass from seed indoors, in pots, in water, or in the ground depending on your preference and climate. You can also harvest your own lemongrass stalks and use them in cooking or making tea.

Lemongrass is a versatile herb that has a citrusy smell and taste and is used in many Asian dishes and beauty products. It is also known for its health benefits, such as improving digestion, boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, and relieving stress.

We hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new about how to grow lemongrass from seed. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you.

And if you are ready to try growing your own lemongrass from seed, why not start today? You can order some fresh and high-quality lemongrass seeds from our online store and get them delivered to your doorstep in no time. Just click on the link below and start your lemongrass journey today!

Happy growing!