How to grow lemongrass in a raised bed

Lemongrass is a lush, fragrant tropical grass that forms a big clump of citrusy stems for Thai and Vietnamese cooking. It loves warmth and water, and a raised bed gives it the rich, moist root run it wants.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun
• Spacing: one clump per 60–90 cm
• Tub depth: our 35 cm depth
• Time to harvest: 4–6 months to establish

When should I plant lemongrass?

Lemongrass is frost-tender — plant in spring and summer once it's warm. In frost-free areas it's a lasting perennial clump. Our free garden calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

• Subtropical (Brisbane & SEQ): September to February
• Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth): October to December
• Cool & mountain (Tasmania, Canberra, highlands): November to December
• Tropical (Cairns, Darwin): September to March
• Arid inland: September to November

How do I grow lemongrass in a raised bed?

Plant into rich, moist mix in full sun and give it room — a happy clump gets big. In cold areas, grow it where you can protect it from frost, or lift a division to overwinter.

How often should I water and feed lemongrass?

Lemongrass is thirsty — keep the mix moist and feed for lush growth. It rewards water generously.

What pests attack lemongrass?

Keep an eye out for aphids — though most herbs are pleasingly pest-resistant. See our safe pest guide.

What are the common problems with lemongrass?

The main one to watch is rust, usually from damp, crowded conditions. Good airflow and morning watering prevent most.

What grows well with lemongrass?

Give it a corner of its own to clump up; it grows happily near ginger and turmeric. See our companion planting guide.

When do I harvest lemongrass?

Harvest by twisting off whole stems at the base once they're pencil-thick or more; use the tender lower stem. Trim the clump back in late winter.

More growing guides: ginger, turmeric and Vietnamese mint.

Plan your patch: our free garden calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Nativeplants garden, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.