Lemongrass is a wonderful herb that can come back every year, but it does require some care and attention to ensure its survival. Lemongrass is a tender perennial, which means that it can survive year after year under the right conditions. However, it is important to note that lemongrass is not a cold-hardy plant and cannot tolerate freezing temperatures or frost.
In USDA zones 8b and 9, where the winters are milder, lemongrass can be grown outdoors year-round without any issues. These zones have average minimum winter temperatures of 15 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-9 to -6 degrees Celsius), which lemongrass can tolerate. In these regions, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of lemongrass in your garden all year long.
However, for those living in colder regions with USDA zones below 8b, it is necessary to take some precautions to ensure the survival of lemongrass during the winter. When the temperatures start to drop and frost becomes a possibility, it is time to bring your lemongrass indoors.
One option is to dig up the lemongrass plants from your garden and transplant them into pots. Choose large enough pots to accommodate the root system and provide plenty of room for growth. Use a well-draining potting mix and place the pots in a sunny location indoors, such as a south-facing window. Water the plants regularly, but be sure not to overwater as lemongrass prefers slightly dry conditions.
Another method is to take cuttings from your lemongrass plants before the first frost hits. Cut the stalks close to the ground, leaving about 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) of the plant above the soil. Trim the leaves off the stalks, leaving only a few inches at the top. Place the cuttings in a jar or glass of water, making sure the bottom ends are submerged. Keep the jar in a warm and well-lit area, changing the water every few days. After a couple of weeks, you should see roots starting to form. At this point, you can transplant the rooted cuttings into pots and follow the same care instructions as mentioned earlier.
If you choose to bring your lemongrass indoors, it is important to provide it with adequate light. Lemongrass requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. If you do not have a suitable sunny spot indoors, you can supplement with artificial grow lights to ensure your lemongrass receives the light it needs.
During the winter months, lemongrass may go dormant and its growth may slow down. This is normal, and you should adjust your watering accordingly. Be careful not to overwater during this period, as it can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, but do not let it completely dry out.
In the spring, once the danger of frost has passed, you can consider moving your lemongrass plants back outside. Gradually acclimate them to the outdoor conditions by placing them in a sheltered spot for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the time outdoors over the course of a week. This will help prevent shock to the plants and ensure a successful transition.
While lemongrass is a tender perennial that can come back every year, it requires proper care and attention to survive in colder regions. By bringing it indoors or taking cuttings before the first frost, providing adequate light, and adjusting watering habits, you can enjoy the benefits of lemongrass year after year.
