Lemongrass (Cymbogon citratus) is a popular spice that gives many Asian-inspired dishes and drinks a slightly lemony, aromatic note. The plant forms sturdy culms and is relatively easy to care for, provided you take into account its tropical needs for warmth and winter protection.

The water requirement

Water the lemongrass about two to three times a week in the summer months, depending on the weather. You should definitely let the soil dry out between the individual waterings. Lemongrass tolerates short periods of drought better than waterlogging, which quickly leads to root rot.

Fertilize moderately

You should only fertilize lemongrass during the growth phase from April to September. Organic vegetable or herb fertilizers are best suited, as their nutrient composition is optimally tailored to the needs of the plant.

cutting and harvesting

You can carefully separate one of the onion-like thickenings from the clump and use it fresh in the kitchen throughout the year.

Plant or repot lemongrass outdoors

Spring is the best time to plant lemongrass. You can plant the spice directly outdoors until autumn. If you want to cultivate lemongrass on the balcony or terrace, now is the right time to put it in a larger planter. Lemongrass prefers a slightly acidic substrate. Conventional potting soil, which you loosen up with a little sand, is well suited. In order to avoid waterlogging, it is advisable to put a drainage layer of gravel or expanded clay (€19.73) in both the garden and the planter.

This is how the spice gets through the winter

Lemongrass is not frost hardy and should not overwinter outdoors in our latitudes. Already when the nights are getting colder, the spice should move into the house. Well suited for hibernation is a bright, warm place with temperatures between 20 and 22 degrees. Make sure there is sufficient humidity.

control of pests

Small mosquitoes that fly up when watering indicate an infestation with fungus gnats. While the adults do not pose a threat to the plant, the larvae can weaken the lemongrass.

They cause:

  • Visible feeding damage
  • growth disorders
  • Cripples on the stalks

Since the fungus gnat only lays its eggs in very moist soil, you should not keep the substrate too wet. Always water the spice in the pot from below. Alternatively, you can fight fungus gnats with yellow boards.

tips and tricks

Lemongrass has very hard and sharp leaf edges. Therefore, exercise caution when caring for the spice plant, as you could cut yourself on the leaf edges.

SKb

Category:

Herbs