Lemongrass illustration

Growing Lemongrass in Zone 12b

Zone 12b has a year-round growing season. Lemongrass can be planted almost any time with proper planning. Last frost: Jan 1. First frost: Dec 31.

Planting Calendar

Indoor
Outdoor
Harvest
Nov 6Dec 31

Season: Jan 1 – Dec 31 (364 days)

Zone12b
Last FrostJan 1
First FrostDec 31
Season Length364 days
Days to Harvest120
SunFull Sun
Frost ToleranceNone
Spacing24/sqft

When to Plant Lemongrass in Zone 12b

Start Seeds Indoors: Nov 6

Start Lemongrass seeds indoors around Nov 6 (8 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 80°F. Germinates in 14–21 days.

Transplant Outdoors: Jan 22

Transplant Lemongrass seedlings outdoors after Jan 22. Wait until soil temperature reaches 65°F. Space plants at 24/sqft. Harden off plants for a week before moving outside.

Harvest: Apr 7

First harvest approximately Apr 7 (~75 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Dec 31).

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Lemongrass in Zone 12b?

Start Lemongrass seeds indoors around Nov 6. Transplant outdoors after Jan 22. Expect first harvest around Apr 7.

What is the last frost date for Zone 12b?

The average last spring frost date for Zone 12b is Jan 1. The first fall frost averages Dec 31, giving a 364-day growing season.

Can I grow Lemongrass in Zone 12b?

Yes. Lemongrass needs 120 days to harvest. Zone 12b has a 364-day growing season, which is sufficient.

What is the best month to plant Lemongrass in Zone 12b?

The best time to start Lemongrass in Zone 12b is Nov. Begin seeds indoors around Nov 6, then transplant outdoors after the last frost date of Jan 1.

How long does Lemongrass take to harvest?

Lemongrass takes approximately 120 days from planting to harvest. In Zone 12b, expect your first harvest around Apr 7.

Plan Your Lemongrass Garden

Track Lemongrass from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.

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