Lemongrass – Cymbopogon citratus

This herb is native to India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia, but it is now grown in many other parts of the world, including Africa, South America, and Australia.

Historically, lemongrass has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, respiratory problems, digestive issues, and insomnia. It has also been used as a natural insect repellent and as a cosmetic ingredient in perfumes and soaps.

Lemongrass seeds can be tricky to germinate. Some common reasons for non-germination include: planting too deep, not enough light (they need light to germinate), not enough warmth (ideally 68-86°F), or the soil being too wet or too dry. It is best to use a gentle mist spray to water them and they do have to be surface planted to ensure light reaches the seeds. To grow lemongrass from seeds, you will need:

1. Lemongrass seeds: You can purchase lemongrass seeds online or from a nursery.
2. Potting soil: You can use any high-quality potting soil that is well-draining.
3. Seedling trays: You will need seedling trays or small pots to plant the seeds.
4. Water: Lemongrass requires regular watering to thrive. The best way to water them is to use a gentle mist spray.

Steps to grow lemongrass from seeds:

1. Fill the seedling trays or small pots with potting soil, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
2. Sprinkle the lemongrass seeds over the soil surface, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
3. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water the soil until it is moist but not soaking wet.
4. Place the seedling trays or pots in a warm, sunny location where they will receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
5. Keep the soil moist by watering with a mist sprayer regularly. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
6. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of about 6 inches, transplant them into larger pots or containers filled with potting soil.
7. Water the lemongrass regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
8. Fertilize the lemongrass every two to three weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

To harvest lemongrass, simply cut the stalks close to the ground when they reach a length of about 12-18 inches. You can use the stalks fresh or dry them for later use.

Historically, lemongrass has been used for its medicinal properties. The essential oil extracted from lemongrass contains citral, which has been shown to have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Lemongrass has also been used to treat digestive issues, such as bloating, cramps, and constipation. It is believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system and may help to reduce anxiety and promote restful sleep. Additionally, lemongrass has been used topically to treat skin infections and wounds. However, more research is needed to determine the full extent of lemongrass’s medicinal benefits.