Lemon Grass Seedling Tray

For best results with Lemon Grass, plant one seedling plug per 4-inch or three to four per 10-inch container. Use well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5, EC of 1.0-2.5 mS/cm, and medium feed (200-250 ppm N) of a balanced fertilizer with a 20-20-20 NPK ratio. Provide temperatures of 75-85 daytime and 60-70 nighttime. Don't pinch or use PGRs, but grow in full sun. Watch for spider mites, aphids, fungal leaf spot, and root rot. 

This plant is capable of flowering if it matures without regular pruning. However, it typically provides culinary value and ornamental foliage. 

This plant doesn't require pinching.

Space containers of Lemon Grass seedling plugs for adequate airflow and sunlight penetration around the base and foliage of each plant and to allow the plant to develop without overcrowding. We recommend spacing 4- or 10-inch containers 12-18" on center. 

We don't recommend using PGRs with herbs or vegetables. Provide adequate light and fertilizer to keep this plant growing well.

Scout for spider mites and aphids as part of your greenhouse's Integrated Pest Management plan. Prevention is the best method of treatment for pest infestations. 

Spider Mites are tiny pests that cause stippling, yellowing, and webbing on foliage by feeding on plant sap. They flourish in warm, dry environments. Use correct water and fertilizing practices; over-fertilizing can attract spider mites. Proper humidity levels, predatory mites or ladybugs, and insecticidal soaps or oils may prevent or address a spider mite infestation.

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that cause damage by sucking sap from plant tissue. They reproduce quickly and are particularly attracted to young growth. Curling and yellowed leaves, stunted growth, and stickiness on leaves are signs of an infestation. These insects also spread diseases and reproduce rapidly. Use biological controls or horticultural oils to discourage and kill aphids.

Watch for signs of root rot and fungal leaf spot. Take preventative measures against diseases in your commercial greenhouse, including watering at the base of each plant in the morning, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, providing good airflow, and spacing plants for adequate sunlight around the base and foliage of each plant.

Root Rot occurs in poorly drained or overly wet soil, which becomes the host for several types of fungi. It causes stunted growth, wilting, and root system decay. Prevention is the best treatment, and you will avoid most root rot problems by using clean, well-draining media, appropriate containers, and good watering practices for finishing seedling plugs. Inspect plants for signs of disease regularly. Repot infected plants in well-draining soil, adjust your watering schedule, provide better airflow, and use a fungicide if needed.

Fungal Leaf Spot is a fungus-borne disease that causes water-soaked yellow or brown lesions on foliage, leading to defoliation and death. Fungal infection spreads via insects, splashing water, and contaminated equipment. Humid conditions create an inviting environment. Practice sanitation and good hygiene, water at the base of each plant, and space plants for adequate circulation and light penetration. At the first signs of infection, remove the affected leaves and treat the remaining plants with a copper-based fungicide like hydroxide, sulfate, oxychloride, or octanoate. Use fungicides carefully according to the label's instructions, and be aware that applying copper-based fungicides at high rates or during hot, dry weather can lead to phytotoxicity.

We recommend planting one seedling plug per 4-inch container or three to four per 10-inch container. Use well-drained soil and completely bury the ellepot centered or evenly spaced in the container.