How to Care for Citronella Plants in Pots Outdoors

Citronella plants are popular choices for outdoor pots as they're known for their mosquito-repelling properties. While growing these plants to keep bugs at bay may seem like a simple endeavor, caring for citronella plants does require some effort. Here's everything you need to know to help your citronella plants thrive.

Choose the Right Pot

When it comes to citronella plants, the size and type of the pot you choose matters. Citronella plants need pots that provide adequate drainage because their roots shouldn't stay submerged in water for extended periods. Additionally, make sure the pot is large enough to accommodate the plant's root system growth. A container that's at least 12 inches deep and 18 inches wide should work.

Choose the Right Soil

Like most plants, citronella plants prefer well-draining soil. Choose a high-quality, nutrient-rich potting mix that will provide adequate drainage and nutrients for your plant. If the potting mix you're using doesn't have enough coarse materials in it to promote good drainage, add some sand or perlite to the mix. Too much water retained in the soil can lead to root rot and other problems.

Give Them Plenty of Sunlight

Citronella plants thrive in full sun, so make sure they're placed in a spot that gets a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day. Avoid placing the plants in a location with strong winds as this can damage the plant or cause it to dry out more quickly. If you notice your plant begins yellowing or drying out, move it to a shadier area and monitor its progress.

Water Them Regularly

While citronella plants prefer well-draining soil, they still require regular watering. Don't let the soil get completely dry or for the plant to wilt before watering. Instead, aim to keep the soil consistently moist at all times, but not waterlogged. Check the soil often and water when the top inch feels dry to the touch.

Fertilize Them

Citronella plants benefit from monthly fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and follow the package instructions for the appropriate amount to use. Avoid over-fertilizing your citronella, as this can lead to soft or weak growth that's susceptible to pests or disease.

Prune Them Regularly

To keep your citronella plants looking their best, give them a regular pruning to promote bushier growth. Remove any damaged or diseased leaves and prune back the plant regularly to encourage new growth. Additionally, as citronella plants tend to get leggy, pruning them back to their base is a wise move.

Protect Them from Frost

Citronella plants are native to tropical climates, and they can't tolerate freezing temperatures. If you live in an area where winters are cold, either move your plants indoors or protect them from the frost. Cover the plants with a blanket or similar material on nights when temperatures drop, or move them to a sheltered area where they'll be protected.

Conclusion

Caring for citronella plants in pots is relatively straightforward once you know what to do. Provide them with a high-quality potting mix, adequate water, and regular fertilization, and they should thrive. With proper care, you can enjoy the beauty and mosquito-repelling benefits of these plants in your yard or on your balcony.