Lemongrass is a versatile plant cherished for both its culinary uses and its refreshing fragrance. Known for its citrusy flavor, it’s a staple in Asian cooking, herbal teas, and even natural remedies. Beyond its practical uses, lemongrass also brings a touch of greenery and elegance to small gardens, balconies, and patios. While many think of lemongrass as a plant that requires sprawling garden space, it adapts surprisingly well to container gardening. This makes it a perfect choice for those with limited outdoor space who still want fresh, homegrown herbs.
With its low maintenance requirements and eco-friendly potential, container-grown lemongrass fits beautifully into sustainable gardening practices. Let’s explore how to grow and care for lemongrass in containers, ensuring a steady supply of fresh leaves year-round.
Why Grow Lemongrass in Containers?
Lemongrass naturally grows in clumps and can spread quickly if planted directly in the ground. By using containers, you can control its size and prevent it from overtaking your garden. Growing lemongrass in pots also allows you to manage soil quality, drainage, and placement for maximum sunlight exposure.
Another benefit is mobility—containers can be moved indoors during colder months or positioned outdoors in warmer seasons. For those living in cooler climates, this flexibility ensures that lemongrass continues to thrive year-round without suffering frost damage.
Choosing the Right Container
Since lemongrass grows tall and develops extensive roots, it requires a large and sturdy container. A pot that is at least 12–16 inches deep and wide is ideal. Clay pots, fabric grow bags, or sturdy plastic planters work well as long as they have proper drainage holes. Without sufficient drainage, the plant may suffer from root rot, so ensuring excess water can escape is essential.
If you want multiple stalks, opt for a wide planter to allow the clumps to expand. Over time, you can divide the clumps into smaller pots to propagate new plants.
Best Soil for Lemongrass
Lemongrass thrives in fertile, well-draining soil. A high-quality potting mix enriched with organic compost provides the nutrients it needs. Adding a bit of sand or perlite improves aeration and prevents compaction, ensuring the roots stay healthy.
Since lemongrass is a heavy feeder, incorporating compost or slow-release organic fertilizer at planting time helps maintain steady growth. Regular top-ups with liquid fertilizer throughout the growing season will keep the plant lush and productive.
Planting Lemongrass
You can start lemongrass from seeds, but it is most commonly propagated from stalks or divisions. To grow from stalks, purchase fresh lemongrass with the base intact. Place the stalks in a glass of water until roots begin to appear, usually within one to two weeks. Once roots are visible, transfer them into the prepared container, planting them about 2 inches deep.
If starting from divisions, simply separate a clump from an existing plant and place it into the pot, ensuring the roots are covered with soil. Water thoroughly after planting to help the roots establish.
Light and Water Requirements
Lemongrass thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Position the container in a sunny spot outdoors or, if indoors, near a south-facing window. If sunlight is limited, supplement with a grow light to encourage strong growth.
Consistent moisture is crucial. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. Mulching the surface of the soil can help retain moisture, especially during hot weather. In cooler months, reduce watering slightly, but don’t let the soil dry out completely.
Fertilizing and Maintenance
To sustain healthy growth, feed lemongrass with a balanced liquid fertilizer every three to four weeks during the active growing season. Organic options such as compost tea or diluted fish emulsion work particularly well for sustainable gardening.
Trim away any yellow or dry leaves to encourage fresh shoots and maintain the plant’s appearance. Every year or two, divide the clumps to prevent overcrowding and to propagate new plants. This not only keeps the main plant healthy but also provides additional lemongrass for your garden or to share with others.
Harvesting Lemongrass
Lemongrass can be harvested once the stalks reach at least 12 inches tall. To harvest, cut the stalks at the base near the soil line, selecting the thickest and most mature stems. New shoots will continue to emerge, ensuring a continuous supply.
Both the tender lower stalks and the fragrant leaves can be used. The stalks are commonly used in curries, soups, and stir-fries, while the leaves are excellent for making tea or infusing oils. Harvesting regularly encourages new growth and helps keep the plant productive.
Pest and Disease Management
Lemongrass is relatively resistant to pests, but aphids or spider mites may occasionally appear. A quick spray of water or a solution of mild soap and water usually resolves minor infestations. Root rot can be an issue if the soil is too wet, so maintaining proper drainage is the best preventive measure.
Sustainable Benefits of Growing Lemongrass
Container gardening with lemongrass aligns well with sustainable practices. By growing your own, you reduce reliance on store-bought herbs packaged in plastic. Lemongrass also acts as a natural mosquito repellent, making it a functional addition to outdoor spaces. Its fast growth and easy propagation ensure that once you establish a plant, you’ll have a continuous and renewable source of fresh herbs.
Final Thoughts
Lemongrass in containers is a practical and sustainable way to enjoy this aromatic herb even without a large garden. With the right soil, consistent watering, and plenty of sunlight, your lemongrass plant will reward you with fresh stalks and leaves for cooking, teas, and natural remedies.
Compact, low-maintenance, and eco-friendly, lemongrass is the perfect herb to add to a balcony, patio, or kitchen garden. By growing it in containers, you not only enjoy its culinary and health benefits but also take a step toward more sustainable living.
