Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a tropical perennial grass prized for its intense citrus aroma and flavor, popular in Southeast Asian cuisine and herbal teas. Growing it in a container is ideal for home gardeners, especially in cooler climates, as it allows for easy relocation when temperatures drop. Potted plants also provide a simple solution for those with limited yard space, ensuring access to fresh stalks throughout the growing season.
Establishing the Plant
Starting lemongrass is most effectively done by rooting fresh stalks purchased from a grocery store rather than using seeds, which have a lower germination rate. Select firm stalks that still have the basal root plate intact. Place the bottom inch in a glass of water, changing the water every few days until new roots emerge after about two to three weeks. Once the roots are a couple of inches long, the plant is ready for potting.
Lemongrass develops an extensive root system, so container size is important for success. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and deep; a five-gallon container is an ideal minimum to support a full season of growth. The pot must have excellent drainage holes. While material is flexible, a heavy clay pot can help stabilize the tall grass and prevent tipping in strong winds.
The soil mixture must be rich, fertile, and well-draining, as the plant will not tolerate soggy roots. A good blend consists of high-quality potting mix amended with organic material, such as compost, and a drainage enhancer like perlite or pumice. This composition ensures the roots receive consistent moisture without becoming waterlogged, which is a common issue for container plants.
Daily and Weekly Care Requirements
Lemongrass is a sun-loving plant that requires a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily to produce thick, flavorful stalks for culinary use. Placing the container in a location that receives full sun exposure is necessary for robust growth. Insufficient light results in sparse foliage and thin, weak stalks, reducing the plant’s productivity.
Watering is important for this tropical grass, especially because container soil tends to dry out more quickly than garden beds. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but never saturated. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which often means watering daily or every other day during the hottest summer months.
As a fast-growing grass, lemongrass is considered a heavy feeder and requires a regular fertilization schedule during the active growing season. Applying a liquid fertilizer every two to three weeks, using a balanced or nitrogen-forward formulation, encourages lush, above-ground growth. Nitrogen is important for developing the strong, green leaves and plump stalks that are harvested.
Harvesting and Maintenance Pruning
Begin harvesting stalks once the plant is established and the individual stems are at least one-half inch thick at the base. To harvest, select an outer stalk and either cut it at the soil line with a sharp knife or shears, or pull the entire stalk, including the bulbous base, away from the main clump. Harvesting the older, outer stalks first stimulates new growth to emerge from the center of the plant.
The most tender and flavorful part of the stalk is the pale, lower section, which should be separated from the tough, grassy green tops for cooking. If you are only interested in the leafy parts for tea or infusion, clip the leaves as needed without removing the stalk. Regular harvesting acts as a form of pruning, keeping the plant productive and encouraging a bushier habit.
Beyond harvesting, maintenance pruning involves removing any dead, brown, or discolored foliage throughout the season to improve air circulation and appearance. This tidying prevents the plant from wasting energy on decaying matter. Wear gloves when trimming, as the edges of the grass blades can be sharp and may cause minor cuts.
Preparing Potted Lemongrass for Winter
Lemongrass is a tender perennial that will not survive freezing temperatures, so container growing is beneficial in temperate climates. Bring the potted plant indoors before nighttime temperatures consistently drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can be kept in a cool, dark, or dimly lit location to encourage dormancy, which is the easiest way to overwinter the large grass.
To prepare for indoor storage, cut the foliage back drastically, shearing the stalks down to about six inches in height. This reduction minimizes the plant’s need for light and water during its dormant phase. Place the cut-back pot in a cool basement, garage, or cellar where temperatures remain between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
During dormancy, the plant requires little moisture. Water sparingly, only about once a month, to prevent the roots from drying out. Avoid fertilization during this period, as the plant is not actively growing. Alternatively, if you wish to keep the plant actively growing, place it near a bright, south-facing window or under a grow light and continue to water with slightly reduced frequency.