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If you’re working with a small backyard, balcony, or terrace garden, it’s natural to pair herbs in the same pot or raised bed to save space. One of the most common questions I hear is: can you plant lemongrass with basil? I’ve grown both herbs for years in containers and mixed herb beds, and this pairing is one of the easiest, most beginner-friendly combinations you can grow.
The simple answer is yes, you can plant lemongrass with basil, and they thrive together as long as a few basic conditions are met. Both herbs love warmth, moisture, and sun, and neither is invasive. The key is balancing water needs and giving each plant enough space.
Why Lemongrass and Basil Grow Well Together
These two herbs share similar growing preferences, which is why they work well in the same pot or garden bed.
• Both love full sun. Lemongrass thrives in heat, and basil becomes sweeter and more aromatic in strong light. • Both prefer moist but well-draining soil. They hate soggy soil but react well to consistent watering. • Neither is aggressive underground. Unlike mint, basil won’t invade the lemongrass root zone. • Their shapes complement each other. Lemongrass grows tall and vertical, while basil stays wide and bushy.
In my own container garden, basil grown beside lemongrass stayed noticeably perkier in midsummer because the lemongrass provided a bit of filtered shade during extreme heat without causing crowding.
Step-by-Step Instructions
• A medium or large pot (at least 14–16 inches wide) or a raised bed • Quality potting mix or loamy garden soil • Compost or slow-release organic fertilizer • Mulch (optional, but helps basil stay hydrated) • Watering can or hose with gentle spray • Sunny location with at least 6 hours of light
Budget-friendly alternatives • Instead of perlite, use coarse sand for drainage • Instead of compost, use homemade kitchen-scrap compost or vermicompost • Repurpose a deep bucket or paint tub (with drainage holes)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Choose the Right Container or Bed Size Use a pot large enough for both plants to spread comfortably. Lemongrass needs space to form a clump, and basil needs airflow to avoid fungal issues.
- Prepare the Soil Use a mix that drains well but holds moisture. In my experience, the best blend is: • 60% potting mix • 30% compost • 10% sand or perlite
Mix thoroughly so basil roots don’t sit in soggy pockets.
- Planting Position Place the lemongrass near the back or center of the pot because it grows tall. Basil should sit toward the front or edges where it catches enough sun but doesn’t get overshadowed.
- Watering Water deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Lemongrass tolerates brief dryness, but basil wilts quickly, so slightly more frequent watering may be needed in peak heat.
- Sunlight Give the pot or bed at least 6 hours of direct sun. If you live in a very hot climate (above 32°C or 90°F), position basil so it receives light midday shade from the lemongrass.
- Feeding Every 3–4 weeks, add: • A small handful of compost, or • A light organic fertilizer
Lemongrass is a heavier feeder; keeping its nutrients up helps basil grow more evenly.
7. Harvesting Pick basil regularly to encourage bushy growth. Trim outer lemongrass leaves for cooking once the clump reaches a good thickness.
Pro Tips and Best Practices
• Basil prefers slightly more moisture than lemongrass, so mulch around basil to keep roots cool. • Rotate the pot occasionally so both plants get even light. • Prune basil often to prevent flowering, which causes leaves to taste bitter. • In containers, water earlier in the day to reduce evening humidity and prevent fungal issues. • Lemongrass can get top-heavy; make sure the pot is stable.
Common Beginner Mistakes
• Planting in too small a pot. Both herbs need room to spread. • Underwatering basil. Basil droops quickly in heat if allowed to dry out. • Letting lemongrass overshadow basil. Keep basil toward the brighter side. • Using poor-draining soil. Basil roots rot easily in mud-like soil.
FAQ
Why is my basil wilting next to lemongrass?
Usually from underwatering. Basil needs more consistent moisture, especially in hot weather. Give deeper, regular watering.
Can you plant lemongrass and basil in the same small pot?
It’s not ideal. They need a medium or large pot to avoid crowding and stress.
Will lemongrass shade out basil?
Only in cramped containers. In a large pot or bed, basil receives enough light if positioned correctly.
How often should I fertilize when both plants share a pot?
About once every 3–4 weeks with a mild organic fertilizer or compost.
Can basil grow in full sun with lemongrass?
Yes. Basil thrives in full sun, but in extremely hot climates, partial shade from lemongrass can actually help.
When Not to Plant Lemongrass With Basil
This pairing may not work well if:
• You only have a very small pot • You live in a cool climate where lemongrass struggles • Your growing area receives less than 5 hours of sunlight • You can’t water consistently (basil suffers the most)
In these cases, grow them in separate containers.
Alternative Ways to Grow
Both Herbs Separate pots This gives the easiest control over watering and spacing.
Same raised bed but spaced apart Ideal for small backyards.
Lemongrass in a larger pot, basil in smaller pots around it Great for balconies; gives herbs proper drainage and sunlight.
Conclusion
So, can you plant lemongrass with basil? Yes and it’s one of the most compatible herb pairings for small gardens. As long as you give them enough space, consistent moisture, and plenty of sun, both herbs grow vigorously side by side. Lemongrass brings height and structure, while basil stays compact and productive. With simple care and thoughtful placement, you’ll enjoy fresh basil and lemongrass all season long.
If you’re looking for an easy, reliable herb pairing for containers or raised beds, this combination is a great place to start.