Grow Lemongrass in Kenya: Easy Steps to High Returns in Essential Oils & Tea Markets

As Kenyan agriculture continues to diversify, many farmers are exploring high-value herbs and specialty crops that can supply restaurants, herbal processors, and urban markets. One such crop gaining attention is lemongrass, a fragrant herb widely used in cooking, herbal teas, essential oils, and natural health products.

Lemongrass is well suited to Kenyan farming conditions because it grows quickly, tolerates warm climates, and produces multiple harvests throughout the year. The crop is increasingly demanded by hotels, herbal tea processors, essential oil producers, and health-conscious consumers interested in natural wellness products.

For smallholder farmers, lemongrass offers an attractive opportunity because it requires moderate investment, relatively simple management, and can remain productive for several years once established.

This guide explains how Kenyan farmers can grow lemongrass successfully, including planting requirements, expected yields, realistic 2026 market prices, and practical management tips.

Understanding this Crop

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a perennial grass that forms dense clumps of long, aromatic leaves. The plant is valued for its strong citrus fragrance, which comes from essential oils present in the leaves and stems.

The herb is widely used in:

• Culinary applications, especially soups, teas, and marinades
• Herbal teas and wellness products
• Essential oil extraction for cosmetics and perfumes
• Traditional medicine

Lemongrass grows vigorously and can reach 1–1.5 meters in height under good conditions. Once established, the crop can remain productive for 3–5 years or more, making it suitable for both small-scale herb farming and larger commercial operations.

Best Growing Regions for Lemongrass in Kenya

Lemongrass grows well in warm tropical climates with adequate rainfall or irrigation. The plant adapts to many regions but performs best where temperatures remain relatively warm throughout the year.

Suitable regions include:

• Central Kenya: Kiambu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga
• Rift Valley: Nakuru, Baringo, parts of Uasin Gishu
• Eastern Kenya: Embu and Meru
• Coastal regions: Kilifi and Kwale
• Western Kenya: Kakamega and Bungoma

Climate Requirements

• Temperature: 20°C – 32°C
• Rainfall: 800 – 1,500 mm annually
• Full sunlight required
• Moderate drought tolerance once established

Although lemongrass tolerates dry periods, consistent moisture improves leaf production and overall yield.

Soil Requirements

Lemongrass grows best in fertile, well-drained soils.

Ideal soil conditions include:

• Sandy loam or loamy soils
• Soil pH between 5.5 – 7.5
• Good organic matter
• Adequate drainage

Waterlogged soils should be avoided because they can cause root rot and poor plant growth.

Cost of Lemongrass Planting Materials

Lemongrass is propagated through splits or seedlings produced from mature plants.

Quality planting material is important because it ensures uniform growth and stronger essential oil content.

Typical planting material prices in 2026 include:

• Lemongrass seedlings: approximately KSh 100 per seedling

Plant population depends on spacing.

Farmers typically plant between 8,000 – 12,000 plants per acre.

Estimated seedling investment per acre:

• KSh 800,000 – 1,200,000 (approximate estimate depending on spacing and supplier)

Many farmers begin with small herb plots before expanding production.

Land Preparation and Planting

Proper land preparation supports strong root development and faster establishment.

Land Preparation Steps

1. Clear bushes and weeds from the field.
2. Plough and harrow the soil to create a fine structure.
3. Incorporate well-decomposed farmyard manure.
4. Prepare rows or raised beds if drainage is poor.

Recommended Spacing

Common spacing options include:

• 60 cm × 60 cm
• 75 cm × 75 cm

This spacing allows the plant to develop large healthy clumps while maintaining airflow.

Planting Tips

• Plant during the onset of rains or irrigate after transplanting.
• Water seedlings immediately after planting.
• Apply mulch to conserve soil moisture and reduce weeds.

Crop Growth Timeline

Lemongrass establishes quickly when grown in warm conditions.

Typical growth stages include:

• 0–3 weeks: plant establishment
• 1–2 months: vigorous leaf growth
• 3–4 months: first harvest possible
• 6 months onward: full production stage

Once mature, they can produce continuous harvests for several years.

Expected Yields

Yield depends on management, rainfall, and soil fertility.

Typical production estimates include:

• 15 – 25 tonnes of fresh lemongrass leaves per acre annually (approximate estimate)

Farmers can harvest them 4–6 times per year, depending on climate and irrigation.

When processed for drying, yields reduce significantly due to moisture loss.

Key Management Practices

Weed Control

Weeds compete with young lemongrass plants during establishment.

Farmers should:

• Weed regularly during the first three months
• Apply organic mulch
• Maintain clean rows

Fertility Management

Lemongrass responds well to organic fertilization.

Recommended practices include:

• Applying well-decomposed manure
• Adding compost annually
• Maintaining good soil fertility

Healthy soil improves leaf production and essential oil content.

Irrigation

Although drought tolerant, irrigation improves productivity.

Farmers growing rthe crop commercially often irrigate during dry seasons to maintain continuous harvesting.

Pest and Disease Management

Lemongrass is generally resistant to many pests.

Occasional issues may include:

• Leaf blight
• Rust diseases
• Termites in dry regions

Proper spacing, sanitation, and healthy soils help minimize these problems.

Harvesting Lemongrass

Harvesting focuses on the aromatic leaves and stems.

Best harvesting practices include:

• First harvest 3–4 months after planting
• Cut leaves 10–15 cm above the ground
• Harvest every 2–3 months depending on growth
• Use sharp knives or sickles

Frequent harvesting encourages new leaf growth and higher productivity.

Market Opportunities in Kenya

Demand for lemongrass is increasing in Kenya due to the expansion of herbal tea markets, wellness products, and natural cosmetics.

Major buyers include:

• Herbal tea processors
• Hotels and restaurants
• Supermarkets
• Natural health product manufacturers
• Essential oil processors

Approximate farm-gate prices in 2026:

• Fresh lemongrass: about KSh 80 – 200 per kilogram depending on buyer and quality
• Dried lemongrass: higher value depending on processing and packaging

Farmers who process lemongrass into herbal tea blends or essential oils may earn higher returns compared to selling raw leaves.

Practical Takeaways for Kenyan Farmers

Important lessons for farmers include:

• Start with small acreage while testing markets.
• Use quality seedlings to ensure strong plant growth.
• Maintain good soil fertility and proper spacing.
• Harvest regularly to stimulate new growth.
• Explore value addition such as drying, packaging, or essential oil production.

Herb farming succeeds best when farmers focus on consistent quality and reliable buyers.

Conclusion

Lemongrass farming offers Kenyan farmers a practical opportunity to enter the herbal crop and wellness product market. The crop’s resilience, multiple harvests, and growing demand make it a suitable enterprise for both smallholder farmers and commercial herb producers.

With proper soil preparation, quality planting materials, and careful harvesting, lemongrass can provide a steady supply of fresh herbs to expanding urban and processing markets.

Farmers seeking certified seedlings and expert guidance can reach us through www.seedfarm.co.ke, or +254712075915, or email: info@seedfarm.co.ke.