If you're going to grow ONE plant this summer, it should definitely be citronella, also known as the mosquito plant! Citronella not only adds decor to your garden, but will also keep mosquitoes at bay and give your garden a beautiful lemony scent! If you're interesting in learning how to grow citronella, AKA mosquito plant, keep reading our gardening guide below!
How to Grow Citronella
Citronella is a member of the geranium family, and has a multitude of medicinal uses, but also makes for a great border plant.
Planting Citronella:
- Plant as soon as the ground has warmed and all danger of frost has passed.
- Choose a site with afternoon shade and space the plants 18-24 inches apart.
- Citronella will grow best in moderately rich, moist soil.
- Give your citronella plant a nutrition boost every 2 weeks. You can use an organic compost, or make your own miracle gro solution!
- Prune your plant on a regular basis – this will encourage healthier growth!
- If you notice that your plant stretches and falls over, that means it is not getting enough sunlight. Plan to plant your citronella in a different spot next year.
Additionally, you can also plant citronella plants in pots, which you can easily move from one spot to another. So now that you know how to grow citronella, AKA mosquito plant, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to planting!
