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Can You Grow Lemongrass in Kentucky?

US · USDA Zone 6b · zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a

Won't grow here

Lemongrass is frost-tender but excellent as a container plant that overwinters indoors.

Plant zones

8b–11b

Kentucky last frost

mid-March

Kentucky first frost

mid-November

Days to harvest

75–100 days

When to plant Lemongrasses in Kentucky

Start indoors

Jan 17

Transplant

Mar 15

Harvest

May 29 – Jun 23

Dates are approximate, based on Kentucky's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a tropical grass used throughout Southeast Asian, Indian, and Caribbean cooking. The fragrant stalks flavour curries, soups, and teas. In cold zones, grow as a container plant and overwinter indoors.

In cold zones, start indoors 8 weeks before last frost in a large pot. Bring indoors before frost. Divide clumps every 2-3 years. Harvest outer stalks 12 inches tall. Loves heat and full sun.

Full lemongrass growing guide →

Gardening in Kentucky

Kentucky has a humid continental climate transitioning to subtropical in the south. Long warm summers support tomatoes, peppers, and most common vegetables. Tobacco country.