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When to Plant Lemongrass in Virginia

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.

Virginia spans USDA hardiness zones 8a (with planting data available), so planting dates vary by your location within the state. Click your zone below for the most accurate dates.

Find Your County

Click your county for exact Lemongrass planting dates based on your local frost dates.

Lemongrass Planting Calendar for Virginia

Zone 8a ~255 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: March 8 · First frost: November 18 · 255 day season

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors January 18 Jan 18 – Feb 1
Transplant Outdoors March 22 Mar 22 – Apr 5
Direct Sow March 15 Mar 15 – Apr 5
Harvest June 7 Jun 7 – Sep 6

Growing Tips for Virginia

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Lemongrass in Virginia?

Planting dates for Lemongrass in Virginia depend on your USDA zone. Virginia spans zones 8a. Check the planting calendar above for your specific zone's frost dates and planting windows.

What zone is Virginia for planting?

Virginia contains USDA hardiness zones 8a. Your specific zone depends on your location within the state — northern and higher-elevation areas are in colder zones, while southern and coastal areas are warmer.

Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals, University Cooperative Extension planting guides. Last updated: April 2026.