Lemon Grass
Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) is an incredibly aromatic plant, known for its strong, citrusy smell. It has many applications, from being used to flavor tea to a common culinary herb. Its narrow, grass-like leaves often have a blue-green hue, with panicles of small, white, feathery flower heads. Growing best in warm temperatures with lots of sun, lemon grass is an ideal choice for home gardeners wishing to add a touch of the tropics.
Lemon grass plants should get water regularly. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but never soggy—which can lead to root rot. During summer, water more deeply but less often to encourage deep root growth. Avoid frequent light watering or standing water. Withhold water from the plant during the rest period in winter.
Growing lemon grass will require a fair amount of light, so plant it in a bright, sunny area. Lemon grass prefers at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, though it does very well in part-shade as well. It blossoms best in full sun, though the leaves can burn in very hot climates, so plant it in a spot with dappled sun or some protection from the hottest rays.
Lemon grass does best in hot and humid climates, with temperatures staying between 65-90°F (18-32°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or higher than 95°F (35°C) will cause the plant to suffer. In cold climates, lemon grass should be grown indoors as a houseplant or in a greenhouse.
Lemongrass thrives in areas with high humidity. If you’re growing it indoors, a humidifier should be employed to keep the air at a higher moisture level. Placing rocks or pebbles in a tray filled with water can also help create a humid microclimate around your plant.
You can use a soil-based potting mix for your lemongrass, but make sure it’s light and airy with a slightly acidic pH (5.5-7.0). To ensure more drainage, you can incorporate sand, perlite, or pumice to the mix. Fertilizing it regularly with a balanced fertilizer will ensure it has all the nutrients it needs.
When growing lemon grass, fertilization is an important part of the care routine. During the growing season, feed your lemon grass a balanced fertilizer every two weeks. Alternatively, you could use a slow-release fertilizer, but you will only have to apply it every 2-4 months. Avoid using too much fertilizer, as it can damage the roots and surrounding soil. Also be careful to use a fertilizer specifically designed for grasses.
Lemon grass can be vulnerable to a few pests, like spider mites, mealybugs, whiteflies, soft scales, fungus gnats, and caterpillars. Even though Cymopogon citratus is resistant to most pests, it can still suffer from an infestation. If you spot any pests, you can get rid of the problem with an insecticidal soap or natural homemade remedies. Taking the plant outside and spraying it with a blast of water from the hose can also help to dislodge any lingering pests, and covering the leaves with neem oil can also work as a repellent.
In order to thrive, lemon grass will need to be repotted about once a year. Whenever you notice the roots have wound themselves tightly in the pot—or when they’re growing out of the drainage holes—it’s time to replant. When you’re ready to repot, remove the grass from its pot and shake away most of the old soil. Plant it in a new container with a potting mix made up of peat moss, perlite, and compost.
Lemon grass grows in clumps, and in time, these clumps will become denser and taller. To encourage new growth, it is best to prune its grassy leaves. Cut the leaves close to the stem with clean, sharp scissors. The removal of the old, dry leaves will help the grass look refresh and vibrant.
Mulching around the root zone of the plant will help keep the soil cool and keep the area moist. Natural options such as bark chips, straw, and grass clippings work well to maintain moisture.
Lemon grass can be propagated from either seeds or root division. To propagate from seed, plant the seeds in lightly moist potting mix and cover lightly with additional soil. Provide the seed with indirect light and keep the soil moist. You can also divide and replant an established lemon grass plant to increase the number of plants you have. Simply dig up the entire grass plant, then use a trowel to gently separate the shoots apart. From that point forward, you can replant the divisions into separate containers and care for them accordingly.
Lemon grass has a bunchy habit and can become top-heavy. When planted in a pot, it may require some form of stakes, a trellis, or a stake and twine trellis to help it keep its height and shape.
Lemon grass does not need a rest period like some other grass plants. Throughout the cooler winter months, it will naturally start to die back. You can cut the dry, dead patches back and the plant will sprout new growth the following spring.
Fortunately, lemon grass is not toxic to both cats and dogs and can be grown safely in homes with pets. Although it has a very strong scent, it is unlikely to hurt our furry, four-legged companions.
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