Growing Lemongrass in Zone 5b
Zone 5b has cold winters and a moderate growing season. Timing is key for Lemongrass in this zone. Last frost: Apr 28. First frost: Oct 8.
Planting Calendar
Season: Apr 28 – Oct 8 (163 days)
When to Plant Lemongrass in Zone 5b
Start Seeds Indoors: Mar 3
Start Lemongrass seeds indoors around Mar 3 (8 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 80°F. Germinates in 14–21 days.
Transplant Outdoors: May 19
Transplant Lemongrass seedlings outdoors after May 19. Wait until soil temperature reaches 65°F. Space plants at 24/sqft. Harden off plants for a week before moving outside.
Harvest: Aug 2
First harvest approximately Aug 2 (~75 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Oct 8).
Lemongrass in Other Zones
1a 1b 2a 2b 3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b 11a 11b 12a 12b 13a 13bFrequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lemongrass in Zone 5b?
Start Lemongrass seeds indoors around Mar 3. Transplant outdoors after May 19. Expect first harvest around Aug 2.
What is the last frost date for Zone 5b?
The average last spring frost date for Zone 5b is Apr 28. The first fall frost averages Oct 8, giving a 163-day growing season.
Can I grow Lemongrass in Zone 5b?
Yes. Lemongrass needs 120 days to harvest. Zone 5b has a 163-day growing season, which is sufficient.
What is the best month to plant Lemongrass in Zone 5b?
The best time to start Lemongrass in Zone 5b is Mar. Begin seeds indoors around Mar 3, then transplant outdoors after the last frost date of Apr 28.
How long does Lemongrass take to harvest?
Lemongrass takes approximately 120 days from planting to harvest. In Zone 5b, expect your first harvest around Aug 2.
Plan Your Lemongrass Garden
Track Lemongrass from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.
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