When to Plant Lemongrass in Rapides Parish, LA
Lemongrass is a tropical grass with a strong citrus aroma used extensively in Southeast Asian cuisine. The swollen stem bases are the most flavorful part.
Rapides Parish, Louisiana is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 5 and the first fall frost is November 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 256 days.
At an elevation of 388 feet, Rapides Parish receives approximately 54.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Lemongrass during the growing season. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Lemongrass root diseases.
Rapides Parish Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
5.9-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Lemongrass Planting Timeline — Rapides Parish, LA
Lemongrass Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 15 | Jan 15 – Jan 29 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 19 | Mar 19 – Apr 2 |
| Direct Sow | March 12 | Mar 12 – Apr 2 |
| Harvest | June 4 | Jun 4 – Sep 3 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | — |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
High — keep soil consistently moist
Days to Maturity
75–120 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 8b
Growing Season
256 days
Growing Tips for Rapides Parish
Start from divisions or store-bought stalks rooted in water. Grow in rich, moist soil with full sun. In cold climates, grow in containers and overwinter indoors.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Lemongrass in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lemongrass in Rapides Parish, LA?
Rapides Parish is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 5. Plan your Lemongrass planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Rapides Parish, LA?
Rapides Parish, Louisiana is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 5 and first fall frost is November 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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