Lagering Time?

[bakersbrew]

I just brewed my second batch a few days ago. Its a Honey Ginger Lager. I am wondering how long I need to lager for? I was thinking I am going to keep it in primary for 3 weeks or so. Then I was either going to lager it for a month or so or keg it and carbonate over a period of two weeks.

What do you guys think? Will the beer still taste good if I dont lager it for a long time? Any help or advice you can give me would be much appreciated.

 

[scinerd3000]

ferment until its about 3/4 of the way done and then move to a warmer area to finsh off and rid of diacetal. then drop a few degrees per day until your at lagering temp and lager. According to palmer, 3-4 weeks at 45 degrees works. How to Brew - By John Palmer - When to Lager

 

[bakersbrew]

thanks for the advice. how will i know i am 3/4 of the way done with fermentation though. i actually dont have a hydrometer yet. and how warm does it have to be? 70F?