Image: Harvesting Lemongrass by Hand
Published: February 4, 2026 at 5:58:36 PM UTC
Close-up of hands harvesting mature lemongrass stalks with a curved knife in a lush garden setting.
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Image description
A high-resolution landscape photograph captures a close-up moment of manual lemongrass harvesting in a lush garden. The image centers on a pair of tanned, weathered hands engaged in the precise task of cutting mature lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) stalks at soil level. The left hand grips a small bundle of thick, pale green stalks firmly near their creamy white bases, gathering them together just above the soil. The fingers are strong and slightly curled, with visible veins, wrinkles, and dirt under the nails, reflecting the labor-intensive nature of the work.
In the right hand, a curved harvesting knife with a dark, slightly rusted blade is poised for action. The blade presses against the base of the stalks, angled for a clean cut. The knife’s handle is partially visible, showing the hand’s grip and thumb placement for control. The lemongrass stalks are mature and robust, with smooth cylindrical surfaces and subtle vertical ridges. Some outer layers near the base show reddish-brown tinges, indicating full ripeness.
The surrounding soil is dark brown, loose, and slightly moist, with small clumps and organic debris scattered around. Tiny green weeds and seedlings peek through the soil, adding texture and life to the scene. In the background, additional lemongrass plants stretch upward, their long, slender leaves forming a vibrant green canopy. The leaves vary in hue from bright green to bluish tones, with some tips showing signs of drying or browning.
The photograph’s composition emphasizes the tactile and visual contrast between the rough hands, the smooth stalks, and the earthy soil. The lighting is soft and natural, likely from diffused daylight, casting gentle shadows that enhance depth and realism. The shallow depth of field keeps the hands and lemongrass sharply in focus while subtly blurring the background foliage, drawing the viewer’s attention to the harvesting action.
This image evokes themes of sustainability, agriculture, and the intimate connection between humans and the land. It’s ideal for educational, culinary, or wellness contexts where authenticity and botanical detail are valued.
The image is related to: A Guide to Growing Lemon Grass in Your Garden