How to plant lemongrass in autumn - terms and features of the procedure
Bright green leaves on long twisting shoots, white flowers and red berries make Chinese lemongrass a decoration of the site. This perennial vine is quite unpretentious, but for a young seedling to successfully take root, it is important to know how to plant lemongrass in the fall. It is this time that is considered the most suitable period for acquiring and planting perennials in the southern strip. The weather is warm outside, there is still enough time ahead for the bush to take root well before the first frost. A warm winter will not be able to harm the lemongrass that has matured. Of course, if you are not late with the landing and give him this chance, and also choose the right place.
In the middle lane and northern regions with colder climates, it is recommended to plant a vine in the spring. The short autumn and early frosts will not leave the seedling time for rooting.
When to plant
Where to plant
Chinese lemongrass loves warmth and light, so choose the most illuminated place for it on the site, protected from the wind. In the shade, it does not develop well and bear little fruit, but it will hurt in drafts.
Do not forget to leave a distance of at least 1.5 m from large trees and buildings so that they do not block the sun for the plant.
The vine loves the soil fertile and light, while it does not tolerate stagnant water at all. Take this into account and be sure to provide a drainage layer in the planting pit. Its optimal dimensions are 50 cm * 50 cm (depth * width). Drainage can be broken brick or pebbles. The contents of the pit should also include fertilizer, so mix the excavated soil with the following ingredients:
- humus;
- leafy ground;
- ash;
- superphosphate.
How to plant lemongrass in autumn
Two-year-old seedlings with a closed root system, which have grown roots up to 20 cm in length, take root best of all. They should have a smooth bark, which indicates sufficient moisture and proper storage. If you purchased a bush with open roots, examine it carefully. Healthy, but dry roots require pre-soaking. You can add a growth stimulant to the water.
Too long roots can be shortened by cutting them to the total length of the remaining roots.
When the hole is ready, fill it up to half with the prepared soil mixture. Install the seedling, straighten the roots if they are open, and cover with nutritious soil. Tamp down the trunk circle and water liberally. Do not deepen the root collar - it should protrude 5 cm above the soil.When planting in rows, leave at least 1.3 m between the bushes.If the planting is in two rows, the distance between them should be at least 2.2 m.For the first wintering, it is advisable to cover the young lemongrass and mulch the soil around the stem.