Do Lemongrass Grow Fast?

Yes, lemongrass grows fast when given proper warmth and sunlight. In a single growing season, a healthy plant can reach 3 to 4 feet tall and spread into a dense clump. With the right care, you can see noticeable growth every week during the warm months.

How fast does lemongrass actually grow?

Under ideal conditions, lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) puts on 1 to 2 inches of new growth per week during spring and summer. From a single stalk planted in the ground, you can expect a 1‑foot‑tall plant to double in height within a month. Here’s a quick weekly growth timeline:

• Week 1–2: Roots establish; new shoots appear at the base.
• Week 3–4: Stalks reach 8–12 inches; leaves begin to spread.
• Week 5–8: Plant hits 18–24 inches; clump widens.
• Week 9–12: Full height of 3–4 feet; stems thicken for harvesting.

This pace makes lemongrass one of the fastest culinary herbs when grown outdoors in a warm climate (USDA zones 9–11). In cooler zones, container plants grow almost as fast if you bring them inside before frost.

What factors affect lemongrass growth speed?

Even a fast grower can slow down without the right conditions. The five biggest influences are:

• Sunlight: Lemongrass needs at least 6–8 hours of direct sun each day. Less light means slower, leggier growth.
• Temperature: It thrives in 70–95°F (21–35°C). Growth nearly stops below 50°F (10°C).
• Water: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Dry spells can stall growth for days.
• Soil: Rich, loamy soil with good drainage encourages fast root spread. Sandy or clay‑heavy soil slows it down.
• Fertilizer: Lemongrass is a heavy feeder. A balanced fertilizer or organic compost every 4–6 weeks boosts growth speed.

If you check these five factors before planting, you’ll avoid most growth delays.

How can I make my lemongrass grow faster?

To push lemongrass into its fastest growth gear, focus on three actions:

• Water consistently. Give the plant about 1 inch of water per week. Use a soaker hose or water at the base to keep foliage dry and prevent rot.
• Feed regularly. Apply a high‑nitrogen liquid fertilizer (like fish emulsion or a balanced 10‑10‑10) every 3–4 weeks during the growing season. Organic options include compost tea or well‑rotted manure.
• Mulch the base. A 2‑inch layer of straw, wood chips, or grass clippings keeps soil warm, retains moisture, and adds nutrients as it breaks down.

For container growers, a quality potting mix with slow‑release fertilizer gives the plant a head start. A tool like a soil moisture meter helps you avoid overwatering, which can stunt growth by drowning roots.

Does lemongrass grow fast from seed vs from stalks?

There’s a big difference in speed depending on how you start.

If you want the fastest results, start with stalks from a grocery store or a friend’s garden rather than seeds. Place the stalks in a glass of water on a sunny windowsill, change the water every 2 days, and transplant once roots are 1–2 inches long.

When is the best time to plant lemongrass for fast growth?

Timing matters. Plant lemongrass outdoors 2–3 weeks after the last frost, when soil temperatures are consistently above 65°F (18°C). In most of the US, that’s late May to early June. Planting in cool soil (below 60°F) delays root growth by weeks.

For a head start, begin stalks indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost. Keep them under grow lights or on a south‑facing window. By the time you transplant them outdoors in warm weather, they’ll already be 6–10 inches tall and ready to grow rapidly.

If you live in a warm climate (zones 10–11), you can plant year‑round. Fall planting still works, but growth will slow in winter unless temperatures stay above 70°F.

How long does lemongrass take to be ready for harvest?

You can begin harvesting when stalks are at least 12 inches tall and about ½ inch thick at the base. From a stalk planted in spring, this usually happens in 60–90 days. However, for the best flavor and texture, wait until the plant is 3–4 feet tall and the clump is well‑established (around 4–6 months from planting).

Harvest by pulling entire stalks from the outer edge of the clump. This thinning method encourages new growth from the center, giving you a continuous supply. Never cut the main clump down to the ground—leave at least 6–8 stalks to keep the plant vigorous.

For maximum speed, use a sharp pruning knife or garden shears to cut thick stalks cleanly. Dull tools crush the stem and slow regrowth. A good option is a quality pair of pruning shears for clean cuts.

Common problems that slow down lemongrass growth

Even fast‑growing lemongrass can hit slowdowns. Spot and fix these issues early:

• Cold snaps: Temperatures below 45°F cause leaves to yellow and growth to stop. Move containers indoors or cover garden plants with frost cloth overnight.
• Root rot from overwatering: Soggy soil turns roots mushy. Let the top inch of soil dry before watering again. Good drainage is non‑negotiable.
• Spider mites or aphids: These pests suck sap from leaves, reducing growth. Spray plants with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
• Nutrient deficiency: Yellow lower leaves and slow growth mean the plant needs feeding. Add a balanced liquid fertilizer or top‑dress with compost.
• Overcrowding: When clumps get too dense, inner stalks compete for light and nutrients. Divide clumps every 2–3 years to keep growth fast.

Most slowdowns are reversible. Once you fix the problem, lemongrass usually resumes its fast growth within a week.

Can lemongrass grow fast in containers or pots?

Yes, lemongrass grows well in containers—and it can still be fast. The trick is to use a large pot (at least 5 gallons) with drainage holes. In a small pot, the root system is cramped and growth slows.

Use a high‑quality potting mix that holds moisture but drains quickly. Add a slow‑release fertilizer at planting time, then supplement with liquid feed every 2 weeks. Place the container in the sunniest spot you have—full sun is critical.

Container plants may grow slightly shorter (2–3 feet) than in‑ground ones, but they still produce plenty of stalks for cooking. For indoor growing, supplement natural light with a full‑spectrum grow light to maintain speed during dark winter months. A liquid kelp fertilizer is a gentle, fast‑acting feed that container lemongrass responds to well.

A simple checklist for fast‑growing lemongrass

Use this quick guide when planting or troubleshooting:

• ☐ Choose stalks or divisions, not seeds, for fastest start.
• ☐ Plant in full sun (6+ hours daily).
• ☐ Keep soil evenly moist—use a moisture meter if unsure.
• ☐ Apply balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks.
• ☐ Mulch base to retain warmth and moisture.
• ☐ Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
• ☐ Thin outer stalks regularly to encourage new growth.
• ☐ Divide overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years.

Follow these steps, and your lemongrass will reward you with fast, steady growth and plenty of stalks for stir‑fries, teas, and seasoning.

Twitter Facebook Reddit Pinterest