Growing Lemongrass in Zone 9a
Zone 9a has warm winters and an extended growing season — excellent for heat-loving crops like Lemongrass. Last frost: Mar 20. First frost: Nov 12.
Planting Calendar
Season: Mar 20 – Nov 12 (237 days)
When to Plant Lemongrass in Zone 9a
Start Seeds Indoors: Jan 23
Start Lemongrass seeds indoors around Jan 23 (8 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 80°F. Germinates in 14–21 days.
Transplant Outdoors: Apr 10
Transplant Lemongrass seedlings outdoors after Apr 10. Wait until soil temperature reaches 65°F. Space plants at 24/sqft. Harden off plants for a week before moving outside.
Harvest: Jun 24
First harvest approximately Jun 24 (~75 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Nov 12).
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 9a?
Start Lemongrass seeds indoors around Jan 23. Transplant outdoors after Apr 10. Expect first harvest around Jun 24.
What is the last frost date for Zone 9a?
The average last spring frost date for Zone 9a is Mar 20. The first fall frost averages Nov 12, giving a 237-day growing season.
Can I grow Lemongrass in Zone 9a?
Yes. Lemongrass needs 120 days to harvest. Zone 9a has a 237-day growing season, which is sufficient.
What is the best month to plant Lemongrass in Zone 9a?
The best time to start Lemongrass in Zone 9a is Jan. Begin seeds indoors around Jan 23, then transplant outdoors after the last frost date of Mar 20.
How long does Lemongrass take to harvest?
Lemongrass takes approximately 120 days from planting to harvest. In Zone 9a, expect your first harvest around Jun 24.
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