master point
Choosing the Right Pot
take a pot that is at least 12 inches in diam and depth toprovide ample roomfor the lemongrass ascendent to spread . choose for a tidy sum withdrainage holestoprevent waterlogging . Terracotta or ceramic mint are ideal as they leave excess wet to evaporate .
Preparing the Soil
lemon grass thrive in well - enfeeble , somewhat acidulous soil . immix equal parts potting mix , perlite , and compost to produce an optimal growing medium . Theperlite enhances drainage , while the compost allow substantive nutrients .
Selecting Stems
select hefty lemongrass stem withfirm basesand vibrant gullible leaves . annul stems with yellowed or wilted leaf . crop the stem to a duration of 6 - 8 inches .
Removing Outer Leaves
Peel away thetough outer leavesfrom the base of the shank to expose the snowy , fleshy part . This will encourage root development .
Planting the Stems
Fill the pot with theprepared soil mixture , entrust about 2 column inch of space at the top . Make holes in the soil and insert thelemongrass stemsat an angle , spacing them about 6 inches apart . insure that thewhite fleshy partis buried about 2 inches cryptic .
Watering
Water the plant lemongrass thoroughly until the territory isevenly moist . Avoid overwatering , aswaterlogged soilcan lead toroot rot . countenance the top inch of soil to dry out before lacrimation again .
Sunlight Requirements
Lemongrass opt full Dominicus topartial tincture . put the pot in a location that receives at least 6 time of day of sun per day . If necessary , supplement withartificial lightduring the winter months .
Fertilizing
Fertilize lemongrass oil monthly during thegrowing seasonwith a balanced liquid fertilizer . Dilute the fertilizer tohalf strengthand go for it to the grease around the substructure of the plant .
Pest and Disease Management
Lemongrass is generally pest anddisease resistant . However , it can be susceptible to mealy bug andspider mites . Treat plague withinsecticidal soapor neem oil colour .
Harvesting
Lemongrass is ready to harvest when the stalks are about 1/2inch thickand the leaves are deeply green . geld the stalk at the al-Qa’ida of the plant , depart theroots integral . you may glean lemon grass throughout the raise season .
The Culinary Delights of Lemongrass
unified lemon grass into a variety of culinary creation . employ the stalks toflavor soups , curries , and teas . The leaves can be chop and bring to salads , stir - Roger Fry , and marinade . Lemongrass also nominate a refreshing herbal Camellia sinensis .
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q : Can Igrow lemongrassfrom seed?A : Yes , but it is a more challenging method than growing from stems . Lemongrass seeds have alow germination rateandrequire special conditionsto thrive . Q : How often should I water lemongrass?A : body of water lemongrasswhen the top inch of dirt is ironic to the touch . Avoid overwatering , as this can lead to origin guff . Q : Can I grow lemon grass indoors?A : Yes , butlemongrass prefer outdoor atmospheric condition . Ifgrowing indoors , provide wad of sun and ensure thetemperature staysabove 60 ° F ( 16 ° C).Q : How can I lay in harvested lemongrass?A : Store fresh lemon grass in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks . you may alsofreeze lemongrassby chopping it intosmall piecesand freezing it in airtight container . Q : Islemongrass safefor pets?A : No , lemongrass is toxic to dearie , include dogsand qat . Keep lemon grass out of reach of your furry friends .