Cymbopogon citratus LEMON GRASS (20 seeds)

Madagascar Lemongrass or Cymbopogon citratus in Latin, is a fast-growing tropical perennial plant from the grass family (Poaceae). This fragrant variety, originally from Southeast Asia, grows in mild climates worldwide. Its development is limited, reaching about 1 meter in both height and width.

Lemongrass seeds are brown, thin, long, and very light. They measure 3 to 5 millimeters in length and are easily dispersed by the wind. Its leaves are 30 cm long, thin with sharp edges, stiff, and light green in color.

Its foliage grows in a dense clump for 3 to 4 years and is harvested 3 times a year. Its pleasant scent is fresh, green, and lemony.

- Uses:

- Germination and Sowing Seeds:

• The best time to sow Madagascar Lemongrass starts in early May.
• Sow the seeds in a tray of finely sifted horticultural potting soil.
• Cover them with 1 to 2 millimeters of substrate.
• Water the culture gently by spraying.
• Place the tray in a warm greenhouse at a temperature of 30°C.
• Germination generally takes 3 to 4 weeks. It is crucial to keep the culture warm and slightly moist throughout the process.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

It can be grown as an annual directly in the ground or as a perennial in a pot (to be brought indoors in winter). For optimal development, it requires a rich, fresh, and well-drained substrate. A mix of 1/3 sand, 1/3 horticultural soil, and 1/3 compost is recommended.

- Exposure / Light:

Due to its exotic origin, it loves bright light. Plant it in a very sunny location. For indoor cultivation, this fragrant plant grows very well under horticultural LEDs.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

Its growth temperature is between 15 and 35°C. Below this, growth stops. It is non-hardy and fears the cold, especially frost. It is imperative to bring the plant indoors during winter. Its USDA hardiness zone is 9.

- Irrigation / Watering:

This variety needs regular water to grow quickly, although it is drought-tolerant and recovers easily. In the ground, water the base twice a week after planting for the first month. In pots, watering every 2 days is recommended. Never allow water to stagnate.

- Multiplication / Reproduction:

The easiest and most effective method is dividing the clump at the end of the year. It can also be propagated by seeds.

- Pests and Diseases:

It is not very sensitive to pests or fungal attacks, but it can occasionally be affected by rust or powdery mildew. Both are easily treated with Bordeaux mixture.

- Maintenance:

Regularly prune yellow leaves throughout the year and apply slow-release fertilizer pellets twice a year.