Lemongrass, a fragrant herb with a citrusy aroma and culinary versatility, is a popular ingredient. While growing lemongrass in Colorado presents unique climate challenges, it is achievable with specific care. This guide outlines steps to successfully cultivate lemongrass, adapting it to Colorado’s distinct environmental conditions.
Lemongrass Ideal Growing Conditions
Lemongrass thrives in warm, humid, tropical, and subtropical environments. It requires at least six to eight hours of direct sun daily for optimal growth and flavor. The plant prefers consistently moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Optimal growth occurs between 70°F and 100°F, with temperatures above 50°F preferred. High humidity (60% to 80%) also contributes to its growth.
Colorado’s Climate Challenges
Colorado’s climate presents obstacles for cultivating tropical lemongrass. The state experiences diverse planting zones (3a to 7a) with common cold winters. Lemongrass is a frost-tender perennial, unable to survive outdoor freezing temperatures, making it unsuitable for overwintering in the ground. Colorado’s high altitude contributes to intense solar radiation and low humidity, contrasting with lemongrass’s preference for moist air. The shorter growing season also requires careful timing for outdoor cultivation.
Successful Lemongrass Cultivation in Colorado
Growing lemongrass in containers is highly recommended for easy mobility and protection from adverse weather. A large pot, such as a 5-gallon size, provides ample space for root development and prevents the plant from becoming root-bound. Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix, possibly amended with compost or organic matter, to ensure proper drainage while retaining some moisture.
Manage Colorado’s intense sun by providing some afternoon shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day, to prevent scorching. Consistent watering is important; ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged, watering deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. In Colorado’s dry climate, this might mean watering every other day during peak growing season.
Start lemongrass indoors from stalks or seeds six to eight weeks before the last frost date for a head start. Transplant outdoors only after frost danger has passed and nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 40°F to 50°F. During the growing season, fertilize container-grown plants every few weeks with a balanced, water-soluble plant food.
Overwintering Lemongrass
To ensure lemongrass survives Colorado’s cold winters, bring it indoors before the first frost. This typically means moving plants inside when nighttime temperatures consistently drop below 40°F to 50°F. Before bringing the plant indoors, cut back foliage to about six to eight inches tall; this helps prepare the plant for dormancy and makes it more manageable.
During winter, lemongrass can be kept in a cool, dimly lit area (50°F to 60°F), such as a basement or garage. In these dormant conditions, water sparingly (about once a month) to prevent the soil from becoming completely dry. If you prefer to keep the plant actively growing, place it in a bright, south-facing window or under a grow light, maintaining indoor temperatures between 60°F and 70°F, and water more frequently as the top inch of soil dries. In spring, once outdoor temperatures reliably stay above 40°F, gradually reintroduce the plant to outdoor conditions over a week or two before placing it in its final sunny spot.