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Can You Grow Lemongrass in Michigan?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a

Won't grow here

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

Plant zones

8b–11b

Michigan last frost

early April

Michigan first frost

late October

Days to harvest

75–100 days

When to plant Lemongrasses in Michigan

Start indoors

Feb 9

Transplant

Apr 7

Harvest

Jun 21 – Jul 16

Dates are approximate, based on Michigan'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 Michigan

Michigan has a humid continental climate moderated by the Great Lakes. Southern Michigan is Zone 5b-6a; the Upper Peninsula is Zone 4a-5a. Known for fruit crops along Lake Michigan.