Are you the type of gardener that looks for beneficiary values in the plants you choose to grow in your garden? If so, then the citronella plant is the perfect choice for you. Famously known as nature’s mosquito repellent, the citronella plant benefits have more to it than you know. Growing this plant is definitely a highly beneficial addition to your garden. Eager to know more? Read along.
Before we move on to the topic of the day, first let’s understand what is a citronella plant and why exactly is it called a mosquito repellent.
What is a citronella plant aka “odomos plant”?
Citronella plant also known as Odomos Plant is a type of geranium plant, that has a strong lemony scent. This lemony zest is responsible for warding off insects and pests. This plant has large, crumpled, lacy green leaves with a hint of pink blooms. You can easily grow them in pots or on the ground. They have a few medicinal benefits such as being used in essential oils and even in the manufacturing of cosmetics as well. Why do you have to grow it, you ask? Well, every garden needs every kind of species to thrive as a whole. According to gardeners, citronella is an ideal addition to any garden.
Does the citronella plant repel mosquitoes?
Although it is true they are nature’s mosquito repellent it isn’t the complete truth. The scientific name of the citronella plant is Pelargonium citrosum ‘van Leenii’, in the 1990’s when it was first introduced in the market, it was widely marketed as a mosquito repellent plant, to grow its sales measure. Even though, it has a strong intense scent, the claim to being the mosquito repellent has proven to be untrue. But yet, they are still a lovely addition to the garden, whether a mosquito repellent or not.
How to grow the citronella plant?
Now, we are finally talking about the main topic at hand, how to grow this lovely lady. There are two phases to grow the citronella plant, let’s find out what they are:
1. Choosing the perfect location
- Adequate Sunlight: Citronella plants bloom and thrive in a sufficient amount of sunshine. They require on the bare minimum, at least 6-8 hours of sunlight on a daily basis. You need to choose that spot in your garden which is showering with sunshine.
- Soil Requirements: You need to make sure the soil is draining well and has rich organic matter. These plants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil. The pH value is around 5-7.
- Climate Conditions: Citronella plants love the warm climate, they require the weather conditions to be above 60°F to thrive. Also, they are highly sensitive to cold and frost.
- Sufficient Space: These plants need an ample amount of space to receive sunlight and to grow. The recommended distance is 2-3 feet apart.
- Sheild from wind: Although the citronella plant enjoys a small, airy breeze, large forceful winds can destroy the plant. So make sure you plant them in a place that isn’t too windy.
2. How to plant the citronella plant?
- Choose healthy seeds: Once you have the seeds, you need to place in seed trays for 6-8 weeks before frost. Also, you need to pay attention to maintaining the soil conditions. The soil needs to stay consistently moist. Further, you need to provide warmth and indirect sunlight for germination.
- Set up the planting spot: After you have chosen the perfect area in your garden to plant the citronella, you need to do some beforehand preparation. Make sure to clean the area of weeds, rocks, and other dust particles. Infuse organic matter such as compost or organic manure into the soil to make the soil fertility rich.
- Dig the area: You need to dig holes that are bigger than the root ball of citronella. You need to also make sure you are providing enough space.
- Planting tips: With a very gentle hand take the citronella plant and place it in the middlemost part of the hole. Make sure the root ball is in level with the soil or even better slightly above the soil. Now, gently press the soil around the citronella plant to get rid of air pockets.
- Water Consistently: Fix a watering schedule to ensure, a sufficient amount of water is being given
Maintenance Tips for the citronella plant
- Watering routine: Once a week, deeply water citronella plants, being sure to get adequate water to the roots. Adjust how often to water depending on the weather, making sure the soil does not dry up completely among water cycles.
- Fertility: In early spring, add a balanced, slow-release fertilizer made especially for ornamental grasses. To determine the most appropriate application method, refer to the fertilizer container instructions.
- Prune: To keep citronella plants in shape and promote bushier growth, prune them on a regular basis. To maintain the plant, remove any dead or damaged foliage and trim off extra growth.
- Pest prevention: Keep an eye out for common pests like mealybugs and aphids on your citronella plants. If you find any infestation, use natural therapies such as neem oil or insecticidal soap to control it.
- Fix a schedule: To take care of any garden, it is important to have a fixed schedule for every plant depending on their needs. Set a routine, based on the requirements of the citronella plant.
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Final Thoughts
Growing a plant is just like taking care of a human baby. They need constant attention to thrive in their environment. Growing the citronella plant does seem a little difficult at first glance, but you gotta do what you gotta do right? You can make it much simpler by having fixed routines for different plants in your garden. Maybe spend about 10-15 minutes on each. Maintaining a garden is hard, we get it, but if there is anyone who can pull it off it’s you. Get planting today!
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