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The plant commonly known as the citronella plant or citronella geranium (Pelargonium citrosum) is a popular plant adored for its intoxicating scent.
When the leaves of this geranium (not a true geranium) are crushed or brushed up against, they release a lemony, citronella-like smell that fills the air and clings to your skin and clothes.
This plant grows very well in the ground or pots but is native to South Africa and is only an annual in zones 9 and warmer. The plant easily survives the colder months in a pot when brought inside.
Does it Repel Mosqutoes?
Source: Urban Scape Gardening/YouTube
How to Grow Citronella Geranium
Source: Simple Gardening/YouTube
From Seed: These plants are quite easy to start from seed. You can start them outdoors in a sunny spot about two weeks after the last frost. You can sow the seeds into pots or in the ground.
Sprinkle some seeds over the surface of the soil and lightly cover them. Keep the soil moist whilst the seeds are germinating.
Once the seedlings are about an inch tall you can thin them out to 18 inches apart. You can either discard the extras or transplant them to other containers or areas of your garden.
From Cutting: You can buy a starter plant at most nurseries or, if you have a friend with a plant already, you can take a cutting and propagate your own. It propagates quite easily.
Once you have your plant started, you will find that you have a very low-maintenance and eager-to-grow plant.
Choose a Pot: If you are going to grow your plant in a pot, choose one that is at least 12 inches deep, this plant can get quite large if it has the chance. Make sure that the pot has good drainage as these plants do not like wet feet.
Temperature and Light: Since this is a warm climate plant, you will have to wait until nighttime temperatures are consistently over 50°F.
Your plants will need at least 6 hours of full sun every day but will benefit from a little afternoon shade if you live in an extremely hot climate.
Watering: This plant is reasonably drought tolerant but enjoys a good watering every other week. Check the plants for browning leaves as a clue that you might be underwatering.
Flowers: In zones 9, 10, and 11, your citronella geraniums will likely bloom all year around. These two-toned purple/pink flowers are really pretty but are not scented as all of the plant’s scent comes from its leaves.
To encourage more blooms, deadhead spent flowers and apply fertilizer if you think it needs it.
Issues with Citronella Geranium
Even though it acts as an annual in most growing zones, this is a pretty hardy plant that will have few problems and need little attention.
Trouble with Leaves: If you notice you notice yellow or browning leaves, remove the damaged foliage and assess the amount of water it is getting. Though drought tolerant to an extent, it does need water regularly.
Allergens: As we now know, it is the scent that attracts people to this plant. Though most people will have little issue touching the plant with their skin, some people might have an allergic reaction.
Before rubbing the leaves all over your arms and face, do a spot test to check for any reaction.
Pets: It should also be noted that all Pelargonium is toxic to cats and dogs.
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