I discovered lemongrass many years ago when I wanted a plant that not only looked good next to my patio but also brought scent, texture, and purpose to the space.
Since then I’ve planted it strategically around my outdoor living area, and the results have been better than I expected.
I want to share why I believe everyone should plant lemongrass around their patio — and how I do it in a way that looks beautiful, is easy to maintain, and offers real benefits.
Table of Contents
Why I Choose Lemongrass for My Patio?
Here are the reasons I keep coming back to lemongrass when I plan outdoor spaces.
1. Elegant, Upright Structure and Fresh Scent
One of the first things I noticed was how lemongrass forms a graceful clump of tall, narrow leaves that arch gently and catch the breeze.
The scent is lightly citrusy, clean, and refreshing, exactly what I want when I step out onto the patio with my morning tea.
It gives that natural aroma that makes the space feel alive and intentional.
2. Works in Hard-to-manage Areas
My patio is partly exposed to heat, sun and occasional dry spells. Many plants struggle in that mix, but lemongrass thrives when given the right basics.
It tolerates higher light levels, warms up nicely, and even when other plants are wilting it keeps a good presence. That resilience makes it one of my go-to plants.
3. Dual Purpose: Aesthetics Plus Utility
I love plants that can do more than just look pretty. In my case, lemongrass plays two roles: it adds vertical interest and texture around my patio, and it also helps manage insects and strengthen the outdoor feel.
If a plant can pull double duty, I’m much more likely to keep it long term.
4. Easy to Style and Pair
I’ve also found that lemongrass pairs wonderfully with other plants — flanking my patio with low shrubs, bright annuals or even potted herbs.
Its upright grassy form works like a backdrop or frame for more colorful plants, and it gives that “finished” look around an outdoor space.
How I Plant Lemongrass Around My Patio Successfully?
To get the best from lemongrass around a patio, I follow a set of steps. If you follow them too, you’ll set yourself up nicely.
1. Choose the Right Spot
I always pick a space that receives full sun (at least six hours a day) because lemongrass loves warmth and bright light. Around my patio I pick the edge where the sun hits mid-morning through afternoon.
If you have partial shade only, you can still try lemongrass but expect slower growth.
Tip: Measure your sun exposure and pick a patio boundary where light is consistent.
2. Prepare the Soil or Container
If I plant directly in the ground I ensure the soil drains well — lemongrass does not like to sit in water. I often mix in compost or grit if the soil is heavy.
If I’m using a container (especially if the soil near the patio is poor) I pick a large pot (12″+ diameter) with good drainage.
Tip: Use free-draining soil, avoid clay that stays soggy.
3. Plant with Correct Spacing
Because lemongrass forms clumps that can grow 2-4 feet wide and tall, I leave enough room so each plant can expand.
Around my patio I normally allow about 24-30 inches (60-75 cm) between plants so they don’t crowd each other or shade smaller companions.
Tip: Leave space for both growth and movement.
4. Watering and Feeding
During establishment I water regularly so roots settle. After that I moderate watering: keep soil moist but firmly drained. I avoid letting the plant sit in soggy soil or drought for long periods.
For fertilizer I add a light organic feed in spring and optionally a balanced feed through summer if growth seems slow.
Tip: Water when the top inch of soil is dry; in heat be vigilant.
5. Styling Around The Patio
I often use lemongrass in a few practical ways:
- As a border plant around the patio edge to define the outdoor room.
- In tall pots flanking seating areas to add height and softness.
- Mixed with lower flowering plants so the grass form rises behind them.
Tip: Plant it where its form and scent can be appreciated from the patio seating.
6. Maintenance and Overwintering
I keep maintenance minimal. At the end of summer I trim any dead or damaged leaves. In colder climates (when frost arrives) I bring container plants indoors or treat the clump as an annual and replace it next spring.
In warmer zones lemongrass continues year-round.
Tip: If you live where frost hits, consider container planting and bring indoors or use fresh each year.
Benefits I See From Planting Lemongrass Around My Patio
Here are the main benefits I experience when I plant lemongrass in my patio setting.
| Benefit | What I Experience |
|---|---|
| Natural scent and ambiance | The mild citrus fragrance lifts the mood and freshens the air around the patio |
| Visual structure and texture | The tall grassy form defines space, adds vertical interest and anchors seating areas |
| Tough and resilient | It handles sun, heat and occasional neglect and still looks good |
| Pest deterrence | I notice fewer flies and some insects around the edges; the scent plays a role (though not a complete solution) |
| Easy companion to other plants | Works well behind short flowering plants or in mixed containers |
| Low-maintenance once established | I water sensibly, prune lightly, and the plant does its job without fuss |
Troubleshooting: What I Watch For
Even though lemongrass is sturdy, I keep an eye out for a few issues and take simple corrective action.
1. Problem: Floppy or Weak Growth
Cause: Too much shade, poor soil or overcrowding.
My fix: Move the plant to a sunnier spot, improve soil drainage, increase spacing.
2. Problem: Yellowing Leaves or Base Rot
Cause: Wet soil, poor drainage or winter cold stress.
My fix: Ensure pot drains, reduce watering, move into shelter in cold zones or treat as annual.
3. Problem: No Scent or Reduced Aroma
Cause: Leaves not disturbed or plant stressed.
My fix: Brush leaves occasionally, wipe off dust, ensure good health and sun.
4. Problem: Plant Too Large or Congested
Cause: Clump has grown for several years without division.
My fix: Divide in early spring: dig up, split into two or more plants, replant with fresh soil.
By staying ahead of these, I keep my lemongrass looking and feeling great around the patio.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for an easy way to upgrade your patio space (visually, sensorial and functionally) I wholeheartedly recommend planting lemongrass.
From my perspective, it delivers so much: graceful structure, fragrance, ease of care, and a sense of purpose. It helps me define the outdoor living area, invites me to linger with a drink at dusk, and brings a subtle but constant connection to nature.
I love walking out onto my patio and knowing that the plant I chose is working for me. If you follow the steps I’ve shared (pick the right spot, prepare the soil or crate, water and feed correctly, space thoughtfully, maintain lightly), you’ll find that lemongrass becomes one of your favorite patio plants too.
Plant it around the patio and give it a season or two. I promise you’ll enjoy the results.
