Lemongrass is a beloved culinary herb that adds a refreshing lemony flavor and aroma to dishes. The grassy stalks and leaves can be used fresh or dried in teas, soups, curries, and more. While you may be able to find lemongrass fresh at the grocery store, growing your own is rewarding and ensures you always have some on hand.
When it comes to buying lemongrass seeds, you want to find a reputable source with high quality seeds. The last thing you want is to carefully tend to your lemongrass all season only to end up with a lackluster harvest. That’s why I’ve dug into the top places to buy lemongrass seeds online and found the cream of the crop. Keep reading to find out where to get your hands on the best lemongrass seeds for your garden.
What to Look for in Lemongrass Seeds
Before we dive into the top seed sources, let’s go over what makes lemongrass seeds high quality. Here are the key factors to look for:
-
Organic seeds – Organic seeds are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, which is better for you and the environment. Organic certification also indicates the seller has higher standards overall.
-
Heirloom variety – Heirloom seeds come from plant varieties that have been passed down over generations. They tend to have more flavor and unique characteristics compared to hybrids.
-
High germination rates – Quality lemongrass seeds should have germination rates of 80% or more meaning at least 80% of the seeds can be expected to sprout.
-
Good reviews – It’s always smart to read reviews from fellow gardeners to gauge if others have had success with the seeds. Make sure to check reviews on the specific lemongrass seed variety.
-
Seller specializes in herbs – Companies that specialize in herb seeds like lemongrass often have more seed varieties and expertise than general seed sellers.
When you find lemongrass seeds that check all these boxes you can feel confident in growing a thriving lemongrass patch. Now let’s look at some of the best online stores to buy lemongrass seeds.
Top Places to Buy Lemongrass Seeds Online
1. Burpee
Burpee is one of the most trusted names in seeds, especially for herbs. They offer an organic lemongrass seed variety that has a high 80% germination rate. Burpee’s lemongrass seeds produce tender stalks with a bold lemon flavor that thrive in hot climates. As a bonus, Burpee has excellent resources on their site for how to grow and care for lemongrass. Their seeds are Non-GMO verified and shipped quickly when ordered online.
2. Mountain Valley Seed Company
Specializing in herb seeds, Mountain Valley Seed Company offers certified organic lemongrass seeds harvested from family farms. Their West Indian lemongrass thrives in zones 9-11 and produces high yields of flavorful stalks. These aromatic seeds have germination rates of 85%+ to give your lemongrass the best start.
3. Johnny’s Selected Seeds
Johnny’s Selected Seeds has been supplying seeds to growers for over 40 years. Their lemongrass seeds are hand-harvested in India then lab tested for quality. You can expect germination rates around 80% and top notch flavor from their lemongrass. Johnny’s lemongrass grows well in containers and raised beds for easy harvesting. These Non-GMO verified seeds produce abundant yields.
4. Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds
Baker Creek offers heirloom lemongrass seeds that have been saved and handed down for generations. Their West Indian variety thrives in hot humid climates and produces flavorful lemony stalks. Baker Creek’s lemongrass seeds have excellent germination rates over 80%. As a trusted supplier of heirloom and organic seeds, Baker Creek’s lemongrass is high quality.
5. Eden Brothers
This small family-owned company offers lemongrass seeds produced from vigorous heirloom plants. Their lemongrass seeds will thrive in zones 8-11 and have full flavor perfect for teas and Thai cooking. Eden Brothers’ seeds are non-GMO, neonicotinoid-free, and guaranteed to grow. Their lemongrass seeds have germination rates around 80% for reliable growing.
When and How to Plant Lemongrass Seeds
Now that you’ve got some top notch lemongrass seeds, it’s time to get planting! Here are some tips on when and how to plant lemongrass for maximum success:
-
Start seeds indoors – Get a head start by sowing lemongrass seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Use seed starter mix and keep the soil warm.
-
Transfer outdoors – When the weather warms up around mid-spring, transplant lemongrass seedlings into the garden after hardening off.
-
Choose a sunny spot – Lemongrass thrives in full sun. Make sure to plant it where it will get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
-
Prepare soil – Lemongrass grows best in well-draining, fertile soil. Mix in compost or manure before planting to enrich the soil.
-
Space plants – Leave 12-15 inches between each lemongrass plant to allow them room to grow.
-
Water regularly – Water lemongrass frequently, especially in hot weather. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy.
-
Harvest in summer – You can begin harvesting lemongrass once the plants reach 12 inches tall. Cut stalks close to the ground.
With the right seeds from a reputable source, you’ll be harvesting your own homegrown lemongrass in no time. Think of all the tasty recipes you can create! From lemongrass mojitos to fragrant Thai curries, the possibilities are endlessly flavorful. I hope these tips help you source the best quality lemongrass seeds and get growing. Now get planting and let the lemony goodness begin.
Sow Right Seeds | Lemon Grass
FAQ
Can lemongrass be grown from seed?
What month is best to plant lemongrass?
Does lemongrass grow back each year?
Where can I buy lemongrass?
Lemongrass is an ingredient that you can find in the grocery store. It comes in three forms: paste, dried version, and fresh version. You can purchase the one that you prefer.
How do you grow lemongrass?
Made into a tea, lemon grass can help with digestive problems. A tender tropical perennial grown as an annual. Packet is ¼ gram, about 400 seeds. Sow lemongrass seed in cell packs or flats, press into soil, cover lightly. Light aids germination. Kept at 70°F., germination averages 10-20 days.
Where does lemongrass grow?
They can be found growing wildly especially in Southeast Asia where lemongrass thrives in warm weather. They are often added to stews, curries and teas for its citrusy flavour and fragrance. The lemongrass plant grows well in tropical countries and can be found growing wildly and also in most home gardens.
Can you grow lemongrass indoors?
This perennial must be grown in warm weather or inside to keep from freezing. We are pleased to offer this rare and much-requested seed. Requires heat, humidity, and moist, rich, sharply drained soil. Lemongrass typically has irregular germination; extra seeds are provided (sow thickly for best results). Can be overwintered in containers indoors.
How many QT is a lemongrass plant?
2.5 Qt. Lemon Grass Plant 2.32 Qt. Lemongrass, Live Plant 2.5 Qt. Lemon Grass Perennial Plant
What is lemongrass essential oil?
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon spp.) is the common name for a genus of aromatic grasses widely cultivated for culinary, medicinal, and other practical purposes. The essential oil of lemongrass is high in citral, geraniol, limonene, and other constituents useful for flavorings, perfumes, and household applications.