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Holly's Homestead — Perennial Herb

Lemongrass

Cymbopogon citratus · Grass family
DIFFICULTY Easy
TYPE Tender perennial clumping grass
MATURITY Usable from 4–6 months
Sun
Full sun, warm
Water
Regular
Soil pH
6.0–7.5
Spacing
60–90cm
Depth
as per pot

01A large, useful clump

Lemongrass forms a substantial clump over a season or two and divides easily — a few plants can quickly become a hedge-sized supply.

02Planting

Method
Plant a nursery seedling or a rooted stem from a supermarket bunch.
Soil
Rich, well-drained.
Timing
Plant in spring once frost risk has passed.

03Growing care

  • Water regularly through the warmer months.
  • Feed occasionally with compost.
  • Divide the clump every couple of years to keep it vigorous.
  • Protect from frost in cooler zones — foliage dies back but the base often survives.

04Problems

  • Frost damage — the main risk in cooler zones; mulch heavily over winter.
  • Rust — occasional leaf spotting; improve airflow.
  • Few other pest issues — a generally trouble-free plant.
  • Slow establishment — be patient in the first season.

05Harvest & storage

Signs
Usable once stems reach pencil thickness at the base.
Method
Cut stalks at the base, use the lower white-pink section.
Curing
None needed; can be frozen for longer storage.
Storage
Fridge, a couple of weeks; frozen, several months.

06Companions & rotation

Plant nearby
ChilliGinger
Avoid nearby
None major
Rotation note
Not applicable — long-lived perennial clump.