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Can You Grow Lemongrass in South Dakota?

US · USDA Zone 4b · zones 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b

Won't grow here

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

Plant zones

8b–11b

South Dakota last frost

mid-April

South Dakota first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

75–100 days

When to plant Lemongrasses in South Dakota

Start indoors

Feb 17

Transplant

Apr 15

Harvest

Jun 29 – Jul 24

Dates are approximate, based on South Dakota'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 South Dakota

South Dakota has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Eastern South Dakota is Zone 4b-5a; western South Dakota is colder. Short growing seasons.

See what grows well in South Dakota →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Lemongrass in South Dakota?

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

What zone is South Dakota?

South Dakota spans USDA Zone 4b (3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b).

When do you plant Lemongrasses in South Dakota?

Plant Lemongrasses around mid-April (start indoors Feb 17), harvest Jun 29 – Jul 24.