Lemongrass illustration

Growing Lemongrass in Zone 8b

Zone 8b has warm winters and an extended growing season — excellent for heat-loving crops like Lemongrass. Last frost: Mar 22. First frost: Nov 10.

Planting Calendar

Indoor
Outdoor
Harvest
Jan 25Nov 10

Season: Mar 22 – Nov 10 (233 days)

Zone8b
Last FrostMar 22
First FrostNov 10
Season Length233 days
Days to Harvest120
SunFull Sun
Frost ToleranceNone
Spacing24/sqft

When to Plant Lemongrass in Zone 8b

Start Seeds Indoors: Jan 25

Start Lemongrass seeds indoors around Jan 25 (8 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 80°F. Germinates in 14–21 days.

Transplant Outdoors: Apr 12

Transplant Lemongrass seedlings outdoors after Apr 12. Wait until soil temperature reaches 65°F. Space plants at 24/sqft. Harden off plants for a week before moving outside.

Harvest: Jun 26

First harvest approximately Jun 26 (~75 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Nov 10).

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Lemongrass in Zone 8b?

Start Lemongrass seeds indoors around Jan 25. Transplant outdoors after Apr 12. Expect first harvest around Jun 26.

What is the last frost date for Zone 8b?

The average last spring frost date for Zone 8b is Mar 22. The first fall frost averages Nov 10, giving a 233-day growing season.

Can I grow Lemongrass in Zone 8b?

Yes. Lemongrass needs 120 days to harvest. Zone 8b has a 233-day growing season, which is sufficient.

What is the best month to plant Lemongrass in Zone 8b?

The best time to start Lemongrass in Zone 8b is Jan. Begin seeds indoors around Jan 25, then transplant outdoors after the last frost date of Mar 22.

How long does Lemongrass take to harvest?

Lemongrass takes approximately 120 days from planting to harvest. In Zone 8b, expect your first harvest around Jun 26.

Plan Your Lemongrass Garden

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

Start Free Lemongrass Growing Guide