Want to grow citronella plants?
You’ve come to the right place!
Citronella plants are great for repelling bugs. Learn 7 easy tactics to make your citronella thrive.
Ready to get planting?
Let’s get started!
Choose the Right Spot
Citronella plants love the sun, so pick a spot in your garden where they can soak up at least six hours of sunlight daily. But don’t fret if you have less sun—these plants can adapt to partial shade too.
The key here is to avoid too much shade, as it can make them leggy and less effective in warding off pesky mosquitoes. If you’re planning to grow them indoors, place them near a sunny window for best results.
Prepare the Soil
Citronella plants aren’t too fussy, but they do appreciate well-draining soil. Think rich and loamy, but if your garden soil isn’t quite up to snuff, mix in some compost to boost its quality.
Good drainage is a must to prevent root rot, so if you’re potting them, make sure your pots have drainage holes. Keeping the soil slightly acidic (a pH of 6.5 is ideal) will also make your citronella plants happy.
Water Wisely
When it comes to watering, citronella plants like it just right—not too wet and not too dry. Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, which isn’t fun for anyone. If your plants are in pots, they might dry out quicker, so check them more frequently.
Keep an eye on the weather, too; they might need more water during hot spells.
Fertilize Regularly
Your citronella plants will appreciate a little feeding every now and then. Use an all-purpose liquid fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season.
If you prefer organic options, compost tea or fish emulsion works wonders. Just remember, too much fertilizer can do more harm than good, so don’t go overboard.
A well-fed plant is a happy and productive one!
Prune for Growth
Pruning might sound scary, but it’s super easy and beneficial. Regular trimming encourages bushier growth and keeps the plant looking neat.
Snip off any dead or yellowing leaves and cut back any long, leggy stems. You can also pinch back the tips to promote fuller growth.
Bonus: Pruned leaves can be used in DIY candles or potpourri!
Watch for Pests
Even though citronella plants are pretty pest-resistant, it doesn’t hurt to keep an eye out. Aphids and whiteflies can sometimes make an appearance.
If you spot any, a simple spray of soapy water can be enough to send them packing. Regularly check the undersides of leaves for any unwelcome guests and keep your plants healthy to reduce the risk of infestations.
Harvest with Care
Harvesting citronella leaves is a breeze. Simply snip off the leaves as needed, but don’t go overboard and trim more than a third of the plant at once.
Fresh leaves can be crushed to release their oil or steeped in hot water for a fragrant tea. Harvest in the morning for the best flavor and oil content.
Enjoy the fruits of your labor, one lemony leaf at a time!