How to Transplant Lemongrass

Transplant lemongrass any time during spring or summer, but at least two to three weeks before frost occurs in the fall. Lemongrass thrives in moist, humid conditions, so transplanting it when humidity is high increases the success rate. Water the soil under the lemongrass plant to a 4- or 5-inch depth for at least two to three days prior to transplanting it. This prevents the roots from drying out during the moving process and helps the plant recover more quickly.

Measure the length of the grass blades with a ruler or tape measure and cut the blades off 6 inches above the ground using hand pruners.

Fill a sink half full of water and insert two to three gallon sized plastic plant pots into it. Add 2 to 3 tsp. of dish soap to the water and wash the pots thoroughly using a sponge to clean it. Rinse the pots in clean water and dry them.

Place the pots on a flat surface and fill them half full of an all-purpose potting soil mix.

Dig up the lemongrass from the ground using a hand spade and keep the blade 6 inches away from the base of the plant. If the lemongrass grows in a pot, turn the pot upside down and catch the root ball in your hand.

Lay the roots on a table and divide the roots into four pieces using your fingers to gently separate them. If needed, cut through tough root sections with a sharp, clean knife.

Insert one root section into each pot and add more potting soil around it until it stands upright and the roots are covered.

Water the soil in the pot immediately until it is completely saturated. Place the pots on a dish to catch the water drainage and set them in a location with at least six hours of sunlight per day.