These Secrets You Need To Know About Growing Lemongrass at Home

Lemongrass is an aromatic medicinal plant that is used extensively in teas, soups, and home remedies. It not only enhances your taste but also helps with problems like digestion, immunity, and stress. Let's know how to grow it at home, that too without any hassle.

Lemongrass vs. Other Herbs: Why is it Special?

When we talk about common herbs like basil, mint, or coriander, they grow quickly but often require more care. In comparison, lemongrass:

• Requires low maintenance.

• Grows quickly, especially in warm weather.

• Once grown, it lasts for a long time.

• The plant is less demanding on soil and water.

These features make it perfect for the home, especially for those who are new to herb gardening.

Step-by-Step: How to grow lemongrass at home?

1. Choose the right stem

You can buy lemongrass sticks from a local market or supermarket. Note:

• The stem must be green and fresh.

• The bottom part is a little thick and white.

• It should have the potential to produce a root (node ​​part).

Tip: If the stem is dry, then do not take it, else it will not germinate.

2. Increase the roots by soaking in water

• Put the stem in a glass of water.

• Keep it in the sun for 4-7 days.

• Change the water every 2 days.

• Small white roots will start appearing in a few days.

This step is very important because strong roots are the foundation of a good plant in the future.

3. Pot or land – where to plant it?

• Pot: At least 12 inches deep.

• Soil: Friable, well-drained, and composted.

• Sunlight: Minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight is required.

4. Transplanting and first harvesting

• Push the stem into the soil 2-3 inches deep.

• Water lightly every 2 days.

• It will be fully developed in 3-4 weeks.

• When the plant is 1 foot tall, you can cut off the bottom and use it.

Caution: Never cut the root part, as this will cause the plant to continue growing again.

These secret tips will lead to great growth.

1. Use Neem Oil

Lemongrass can sometimes be infested with pests like aphids or mealybugs. To prevent these, mix neem oil in water and spray it every 10 days.

2. Periodic harvesting is necessary

If you do not harvest regularly, the plant will become hard and stunted. Light harvesting every 2-3 weeks keeps the plant fresh and new.

3. Add organic fertilizers

Add vermicompost or cow dung manure every month. This maintains the fertility of the soil and accelerates growth.

4. Create a balance between shade and bright sunlight

Too much sunlight can burn the leaves. In summer, it is beneficial to provide shade for a few hours during the afternoon.

Some highlights from my personal experience

I first grew lemongrass last year in the summer. Initially, it was a bit unsuccessful as the stem was quite dry. But when I tried again with a fresh stem and kept it in water for 6 days, roots came out. Today, after 8 months, I enjoy fresh lemongrass tea every week.

Another thing I learned - growth is slow in winter, so don't water it much during that time and keep it in a warm place instead of a terrace or veranda.

Its uses in health and the kitchen

• Lemongrass tea: Improves digestion and acts as a detox

• Soups and curries: enhance flavor and aroma

• Oil: Beneficial for hair and skin

• Mosquito sprays: Lemongrass is a natural repellent

Read the scientific information about lemongrass – it mentions its antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

Common problems and solutions

Conclusion: Growing lemongrass is easy, just know the right method

After reading this article, you must have understood that growing lemongrass at home is not rocket science. With just a little understanding, love, and time, you can grow fresh, organic, and fragrant lemongrass in your home.