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Can You Grow Lemongrass in New York?

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

Won't grow here

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

Plant zones

8b–11b

New York last frost

early April

New York first frost

late October

Days to harvest

75–100 days

When to plant Lemongrasses in New York

Start indoors

Feb 3

Transplant

Apr 1

Harvest

Jun 15 – Jul 10

Dates are approximate, based on New York'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 New York

New York ranges from Zone 6b in New York City to Zone 4a in the Adirondacks. Western New York near Lake Erie has a unique microclimate excellent for Concord grapes.

See what grows well in New York →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Lemongrass in New York?

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

What zone is New York?

New York spans USDA Zone 6a (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b).

When do you plant Lemongrasses in New York?

Plant Lemongrasses around early April (start indoors Feb 3), harvest Jun 15 – Jul 10.