Growing lemongrass in plastic bottles is one of the easiest ways to add a refreshing, citrusy aroma to your home garden. This hardy herb thrives in minimal space and requires very little maintenance. Whether you have a balcony, kitchen window, or small patio, you can reuse old bottles to grow lemongrass sustainably—saving both money and the planet.
Perfect for tea, cooking, or natural mosquito repellent, lemongrass is a must-have plant for every urban gardener.
Why Choose Plastic Bottles for Lemongrass?
Plastic bottles are readily available and can be repurposed into efficient mini planters. They help conserve space while promoting eco-friendly gardening. Using bottles allows for:
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Zero-waste planting by reusing household plastic.
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Easy mobility—you can hang or place them anywhere.
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Better drainage when small holes are added at the base.
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Perfect for balcony gardens or small apartments.
This simple idea turns plastic waste into a living green corner in your home.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following items:
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1 or 2 1-liter or 2-liter plastic bottles (preferably transparent).
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Lemongrass stalks with roots or nodes (from store-bought bunches).
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Potting mix – a blend of garden soil, compost, and sand.
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Water spray bottle for regular misting.
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A knife or scissors to cut the bottles.
Optional: Add small pebbles at the base for better drainage.
Step-by-Step Method
1. Prepare the Bottles
Cut each plastic bottle horizontally about one-third from the bottom. The lower part will act as the planter. Poke a few drainage holes at the bottom using a hot pin or screwdriver.
2. Get the Lemongrass Ready
Take a few fresh lemongrass stalks with their white bases intact. Soak them in water for 5–7 days until small roots appear at the base. Place the container near sunlight for faster rooting.
3. Fill the Bottle with Soil
Add a layer of pebbles at the bottom for drainage, then fill the bottle with your potting mix—about three-quarters full. Lemongrass prefers well-drained, fertile soil with slightly sandy texture.
4. Plant and Water
Gently insert the rooted stalks into the soil and press around them for support. Water lightly after planting—enough to moisten but not oversaturate. Keep the bottle in a sunny location (at least 6 hours of sunlight daily).
5. Maintain and Harvest
Spray water regularly to keep the soil moist. Trim dry leaves occasionally. Within 3–4 weeks, new shoots will appear, and by 8–10 weeks, your lemongrass will be ready for harvest. Cut the outer stalks close to the base while allowing the inner ones to regrow.
Care Tips for Healthy Lemongrass
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Sunlight: Needs 5–6 hours daily. Keep it near windows or balconies.
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Watering: Maintain moist soil but avoid waterlogging.
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Fertilizing: Use organic compost or diluted liquid fertilizer once every two weeks.
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Repotting: Transfer to a larger container every 3–4 months for continuous growth.
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Pest Control: Use neem spray if you spot aphids or mealybugs.
Lemongrass grows quickly, and with proper care, a single bottle can yield multiple harvests throughout the year.
Benefits of Growing Lemongrass
Besides adding a zesty aroma to your kitchen and home, lemongrass offers multiple benefits:
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Aids digestion and reduces bloating when brewed as tea.
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Acts as a natural mosquito repellent due to citronella oil.
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Enhances dishes like soups, curries, and marinades.
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Keeps your balcony garden smelling fresh and lively.
It’s both ornamental and functional—a perfect dual-purpose plant.
Conclusion
Growing lemongrass in plastic bottles is an easy, eco-conscious, and rewarding gardening activity. It requires little space, minimal effort, and brings both beauty and utility to your home. Whether you’re sipping homemade lemongrass tea or seasoning your favorite dishes, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of growing it yourself.
Turn your old bottles into thriving planters and let this fragrant herb transform your balcony or kitchen garden into a green sanctuary.
FAQs
How long does lemongrass take to grow in bottles?
It typically takes 8–10 weeks for lemongrass to mature enough for harvest.
Can I grow lemongrass indoors?
Yes, as long as it receives 5–6 hours of sunlight daily or under a grow light.
How often should I water lemongrass?
Keep the soil consistently moist, but ensure excess water drains out.
Can I use store-bought lemongrass stalks for planting?
Yes—just choose fresh stalks with nodes, soak them in water until roots appear, then transplant.
How many times can I harvest from one bottle?
Each plant can be harvested multiple times a year, as new shoots keep regenerating.