Lemongrass is a plant that can come back every year, but there are some important factors to consider in order to ensure its survival. Lemongrass is a tender perennial, which means that it can survive for multiple years under the right conditions. However, it is not cold-hardy and cannot tolerate freezing temperatures or frost. This means that in areas with harsh winters, lemongrass should be protected or brought indoors to ensure its survival.
In USDA hardiness zones 8b and 9, where temperatures generally do not dip below 20°F (-6°C), lemongrass can be grown outdoors year-round. These regions have mild winters and provide the ideal conditions for lemongrass to thrive. The plant will die back to the ground during colder months but will regrow from the roots once warmer temperatures return in spring.
For gardeners in colder zones, such as zones 7 and below, it is necessary to take steps to protect lemongrass from freezing temperatures. One option is to grow lemongrass in containers so that it can be easily moved indoors when winter arrives. Before the first frost, the plant should be cut back to about 6 inches (15 cm) above the soil level. Then, the container can be brought indoors and placed in a sunny location.
When overwintering lemongrass indoors, it is important to provide adequate light and moisture. Lemongrass is a sun-loving plant, so placing it near a south-facing window or providing supplemental grow lights will help it receive sufficient light. Water the plant regularly, ensuring that the soil remains slightly moist but not waterlogged.
If you prefer to grow lemongrass directly in the ground and your region experiences frost, you can try insulating the plant to protect it from the cold. Before the first frost, mulch around the base of the lemongrass plant with a thick layer of organic material, such as straw or leaves. This mulch will help insulate the roots and protect them from freezing temperatures. Additionally, you can cover the plant with a frost blanket or row cover to provide extra protection against frost.
In my own experience, I have successfully overwintered lemongrass in containers by moving them indoors during the winter months. I placed them near a sunny window and made sure to water them regularly. When spring arrived, I moved the containers back outdoors, and the lemongrass quickly regrew and flourished throughout the summer.
Lemongrass is a tender perennial that can come back every year if it is properly cared for and protected from freezing temperatures. While it can survive outdoors year-round in USDA zones 8b and 9, it will need to be brought indoors or provided with winter protection in colder zones. By taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy the fresh and aromatic flavors of lemongrass in your garden year after year.
