How to Care for Potted Citronella Plant

Citronella plant, also known as Mosquito plant, has a unique fragrance that is believed to repel mosquitoes and other insects. Keeping a potted citronella plant is a great way to keep those pesky bugs away from your outdoor space. However, to ensure that your plant stays healthy and fragrant, there are certain care tips that need to be followed.

Choosing the Right Pot

When selecting a pot for your citronella plant, it is important to choose one that is deep enough and allows for proper drainage. Terracotta pots are a great choice as they are porous and allow for air circulation around the roots. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent water-logging that can cause root rot. Choose a pot that is large enough to accommodate your plant while allowing for some room for growth.

Watering Needs

Citronella plants prefer soil that is moist, but not water-logged. Over-watering can cause the roots to rot and ultimately kill the plant. To avoid this, water the plant deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure that the water drains out of the pot and does not sit in the saucer. During hot weather, your plant may need watering more frequently.

Light Requirements

Citronella plants prefer bright, indirect light. Place your plant in an area where it receives sunlight for a few hours of the day. Ensure that it is not exposed to direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves. In winters, move the plant to an area with more sunlight as the days are shorter.

Soil Fertilization

It is important to fertilize your citronella plant every two weeks during the growing season, which is from spring to fall. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer and follow the package instructions. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause excess foliage growth at the cost of essential oil production.

Pruning

Citronella plants can grow quite bushy if left unchecked. To maintain their shape and desirable fragrance, prune the plant regularly. You can pinch back the tips of the stems or remove any dead, damaged or yellowing leaves. The pruned portions can be used to propagate new plants.

Insect Control

While citronella plants are believed to repel insects, they are also susceptible to infestations by spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Check your plant regularly for any signs of these pests and take action immediately if detected. You can use insecticidal soap or a natural remedies like neem oil or vinegar to keep insect infestations in check.

Conclusion

Caring for a potted citronella plant is relatively easy and can be rewarding in terms of fragrance and insect control. Encourage growth and health by following these tips for watering, light, fertilizer and pruning. Pay attention to insect control, and your citronella plant will keep your outdoor space fragrant and bug-free.