maggie4,

Did you try searching the forum? There are several existing threads at this forum on lemongrass which address your questions.

Here is a link that might be useful: Existing Lemon Grass Threads

If you can buy fresh lemongrass shoots in an Asian grocery or supermarket, you should be able to root them in a place that's warm enough. I would first try putting the base of the shoot in about an inch of water in a well lit position and see if roots appear in a week or two. Don't forget it's a tropical plant and sun-loving. In zone 4-5 it will probably do well outdoors for only about 6 months of the year and needs a hot summer climate -- but during summer may grow into a very big clump if in a suitably hot sheltered spot and fertilized and watered well.

As for how to use it, look in an Asian cookbook! Used mainly in Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian and some Indian cuisines, I think.

This is when I get my lemongrass from the local Asian market to root for the garden - about 3 weeks before the last frost date every season. I slice a very thin slice off the end of each stalk to expose fresh tissue, then place them in about 2" of water, and change it every two days or so. By 3 weeks later almost all have rooted, and I plant 6 of the best ones - just plant it about 2" into the soil, 16-18" apart. Here, in zone 6b it takes about 4 1/2 months to harvest, and I usually have 130-160 stalks, plus smaller stalks and the greens, which may be used for soups and stocks. I trim these and vac-pack them in foodsaver bags, and they last just about forever in the freezer.

If you have no source for lemongrass in your area here is a website where you can order them at a decent price, which includes shipping. http://importfood.com/freshthaiproduce.html

Dave

There are many ways to use Lemon grass;- By slicing very thin then adding fresh to any beef salad. A hole stalk crushed then added to a variety of soups. Or if you are into making curry such as green, red and yellow curry, lemon grass is a main ingredient. Just slice it very thin and add it. Lemon grass blends well with other herbs by adding a touch of sweet sour favor to the taste.