Growing advice - Lemon Grass
Cymbopogon is a genus of frost-tender perennial, occasionally
annual, aromatic grasses. There are 56 species, one of which is
citratus (lemon grass). The plants can be found growing in many
tropical and temperate regions. The species citratus is mainly
found on savannah in southern India and Sri Lanka. The name Cymbopogon
comes from the Greek words for boat 'Kymbe' and beard 'Pogon'.
This is a reference to the flower spikelets, which seldom appear
when the plant is grown in cultivation. The plant forms a clump
and has cane-like robust stems and thin strap-like scented leaves.
Several species are grown for their oil, which is used in the
perfume industry.
How to Sow for Best Results
Lemon grass can be difficult to germinate, however, just a few
plants achieved from your packet of seed should more than satisfy
your needs.
The compost should be moist, but definitely not wet. Wet compost
(which can even be the case straight from the bag) will be cold
and reduces the oxygen that the seeds need to germinate. It may
even stop the seeds germinating at all. If the compost is too
dry this will also cause problems. If this is the case, sprinkle
a small amount of warm, clean tap water over the compost and leave
it to soak in thoroughly. When the compost has absorbed the water,
take a small handful and squeeze it in your fist; if water drips
out it is too wet, so leave it for a short while in a well ventilated
spot to dry off. If it holds together when you open your hand,
its just about right. You can now fill your seed tray or pot with
the moist compost and you dont have to water it again before you
sow the seed.
Sow the seed from late January in a 7.5cm (3in) pot, on the surface
of the compost, then cover with a very fine sprinkling of Sow
Lite or free draining compost. Sow Lite is a natural mineral,
(known as vermiculite) which, when exposed to very high temperatures,
expands to produce a honeycomb like structure. Gardeners can benefit
from this structure, as it helps to absorb excess moisture, insulates
the seed and allows oxygen through the compost to the germinating
seed.
The soil temperature is critical for good germination. Place
the pot inside a clean, clear plastic bag and seal with an elastic
band. This will help hold in the humidity and heat required. It
has to be a steady 20°C-22°C (70°F-72°F). This
is about the temperature of a cool, bright windowsill or an unheated
greenhouse bench. The temperature must not fluctuate as this can
cause poor or failed germination. Hot soil temperatures may cause
the seed to become dormant, so use a soil thermometer to keep
an eye on it and move the pot to a cooler location if the soil
does get too hot. Seed will germinate in 21 to 40 days.
Check the compost for dryness regularly, add a little clean water
from below, being careful not to over water. Too much water can
kill seedlings, as it can spread 'damping off fungi' and encourage
other moulds and diseases.
When the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them
carefully into 7.5cm (3in) pots. Grow on for a few weeks in a
cool, frost-free, well lit place, avoiding direct sunlight. Gradually
acclimatise them to outside conditions by placing them in a sheltered
place during the day and bring them back inside at night. Watch
out for cold winds as well as pets, birds, mice etc. After all
risk of frost has passed they can planted into their final position.
This should be a sheltered spot in full sun and the soil should
be moist but not waterlogged. The plants can be happily gown in
containers; plant into a 25-30cm (10-12in) pot and keep in the
greenhouse, conservatory or in the summer out on the patio. During
the summer keep well watered and feed occasionally with a general
purpose liquid feed.
The plants are frost tender so, if grown outside, the plants
must be lifted and potted up in early autumn, before the first
frost. Keep the plants in a greenhouse or conservatory at a minimum
temperature of 7°C (45°F) throughout the winter. The plant
may be propagated by splitting in early spring.
To harvest lemon grass, cut the stems at ground level and use
fresh in Thai and Vietnamese cooking. The leaves can be used as
an infusion as tea. It is said to increase perspiration and relieve
spasms and be effective against many fungal and bacterial infections.
Caution
If taken internally, in excess may cause nausea and vertigo.
Large doses should never be taken by pregnant women or very young
children. Care should also be taken by persons with heart or lung
disease.
The above information is intended as an illustration of the uses
associated with this plant. On no account should this information
be used as a guide to self treatment. Any such intention should
be undertaken with the strict guidance of your GP and/or a qualified
herbal practitioner/homeopath. Thompson & Morgan will not
be held responsible for any loss or injury caused by failure to
observe this caution.
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