Citronella plants are not frost hardy, so in most zones where they are kept outdoors, they are grown as an annual. Citronella is a popular plant for yards because of its mosquito repelling properties. Theyre part of the geranium family. How to Propagate. In nature, the plant spreads through runners, so propagation by layering is another option as well. You might even have one on your patio now. Second, it emits a pleasant aroma that both humans and animals enjoy; third, it is easy to grow and use in gardens and landscapes. In today's guide, you're going to learn how to grow citronella plants from cutting, as well as when to plant citronella plants. Harvest your mature citronella plants from 10 to 15 cm above the ground, leaving the plant roots to regrow. Citronella is a perennial herb that spreads quickly on its own, so you don't have to be concerned about planting it. Many gardeners report that this recipe produces healthy and vigorous root growth thats equal or better than commercial rooting hormones on the market. You may have heard of the citronella plant care. Cut off about six inches from the tip of the branch, then put this into soil or water with rooting hormone added (this helps promote root development). Plant the cutting in a container filled with nutrient-rich potting soil. Pruning or pinching the new leaves of the citronella plant, which generally grows to a height of 2-4 feet (0.5-1 m), is recommended to encourage it to bush out. It's best to keep citronella near other plants that are similar so the soil type and pH level will not be vastly different from one another. Remember, these are stem cuttings, and sterilizing your cutting tools will ensure that you do not harm the mother plant. A loamy soil pH of 6.5 is best. Plant it in an area that is well drained, ensuring that water will not puddle around it. Just ensure that you plant it during the right planting season and in the right place. 5. Allow to cool down and place it in a clean glass bottle. Citronella is planted for various purposes, but most of the time, as culinary and medicinal herbs. In this article, we'll show you how to propagate citronella plants from stem cuttings, so you can enjoy the mosquito-repelling benefits all summer long. According to the Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association, while concentrated citronella oil does repel mosquitoes, the citronella scent of the plants alone does not affect mosquitoes, so growing citronella plants will not in itself lower the population of mosquitoes. On each cutting, you'll need at least two nodes (the bumps on stems and branches where leaves and side shoots grow). In selecting a site to plant citronella cuttings or seeds, keep in mind that they need to receive a lot of sunlight to grow properly. The plant will grow well year-round in USDA zones 9b to 11, but if you live in a colder climate, you should bring it indoors in a large pot. Add holes if there aren't any. Dividing them is best done in the fall season. Citronella plants like moist, loamy soil. Just make sure to water it regularly so it doesnt get dehydrated. The two most recognizable ways in which you can propagate a parent Citronella plant is through stem cuttings or water. Use a rooting hormone. These plants can flourish both indoors, as well as outdoors. Citronella Plant Care. However, the quality for which most gardeners cultivate citronella plants is their alleged mosquito-repelling properties. Soil pH testing kits are inexpensive and simple to use. The cuttings should be planted in soil that is light and nutrient-rich. Citronella grass is a tropical species that requires six hours of sun per day. You can also use cuttings as a source for additional plants. Citronellas prefer a hot, humid environment, so it's important to plant them in soil that drains well and is rich with organic material. Citronella can reach three feet, so the cutting back process should be done in multiple steps over several years if you have a large area that needs coverage. The citronella plant is a low-maintenance perennial that boasts attractive, green foliage with pink flowers and a citrus-like smell. How To Grow Citronella Plant From Cutting. To get a head start, start your citronella early indoors by purchasing starter plants or seeds. You don't have to dig and bury them in the ground. Citronella plants have lacy foliage, and they have a lemony scent. To propagate your citronella plant, you will need to understand the pH levels of the soil. At this time, the plant can be repotted into a larger container or planted outdoors in a well-draining soil mix for citronella plants. (Explained for Beginners) The area should be Misted daily to keep the soil moist. When growing mosquito plant geranium indoors, keep it watered and fertilize occasionally with all-purpose plant food. Soil. In addition, we have included a . With a pair of scissors or pruners, cut two to three inches from a healthy stem. So it is best if you get a container that is 12 inches deep and 10 inches wide. The soil should never be allowed to completely dry out. So, I thought I would grow some more! 2. Prune your plant on a regular basis - this will encourage healthier growth! If you have many branches crossing, use sharp shears to cut them back so they do not cross one another and rub up against each other as the plant grows. Citronella plants cuttings Once the seedling is in the hole, add soil around the roots until firm. We will share how to propagate citronella plant. There are two common methods of soil pH testing. When the plants reach this height, remove them from the pot and let them dry out for a few days before . Balanced soil chemistry is necessary to ensure a good rooting process. You can successfully propagate citronella plants from division, cuttings, and seeds. When this happens, gently remove the stem, cutting with the new roots from the soil, and pot it up in a pot. Ensure that you keep the stem ends of citronella cuttings in rooting hormones before planting. Add water regularly for successful growth. Keep your potted cuttings in a warm location, preferably at a temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove all but the top two or three leaves and stick the stems or cuttings in fresh potting soil. Lastly, you should be aware of leaf spots. Citronella cuttings can be rooted in water. Citronella is made up of many individual clumps, called culms, and this is why cutting is a very effective method of growing them. Then, you can plant it in a sunny location. You can also remove any branches that are crossing one another. Save pruned, non-woody stems or make three-to-five-inch cuttings of non-woody stems. Turn on your cooker and let the mixture cook for at least four hours. Citronella is a clumping plant, so you need to separate it to grow new ones or share with friends. However, it is not always desirable or practical to have such a tall potted plant in your home. This article was last . How to Grow Citronella Plant There are many ways to grow citronella, and these include the following: Growing Them From Seeds Citronella seeds germinate quickly, so sprinkle them on loose soil when you want to grow them. While citronella grass is hard to find, citronella geraniums are commonly available and may be grown from cuttings. In dry climates, the pH level is typically higher than in rainy climates. Follow this care guide and the tips below to grow a . 2 Comments, Citronella is a plant that is popularly known to have a pleasant lemon scent and has properties that repel mosquitoes, which is why it's also known as "the mosquito grass.". Plant cuttings can be struck in perlite, rock wool cubes or vermiculite. MasterClass suggests taking the cutting with at least two nodes included. However, citronella grass is relatively rare in the United States. S Seeds. Its grass can also be used for flavoring various kinds of food dishes. . Make sure that you use a potting mix for overwintering, as opposed to using garden soil. Spring through early summer is the perfect time to plan . Choose a site with afternoon shade and space the plants 18-24 inches apart. Ensure there are at least 2 nodes (bumps on stem where leaves grow out of). They can wither in areas where the heat of the sun is too intense, so providing a partial shade when the weather is too hot is not a bad idea. To propagate a cutting, follow these steps: Take a Cutting To make the cleanest cuts possible, use a decent pair of scissors or garden pruners. One of these nodes will need to be beneath the soil where the roots will form, while a second node needs to be above the surface for leaves and shoots to grow. Citronella plants are a popular home garden choice for their distinctive lemony scent and appealing appearance. Mashing the stem may cause the growth of new shoots to be staunched. And if you are planting the cuttings in the ground, you could just follow the same process above, but ensure that the soil is well prepared and is fertile enough to support citronella cuttings. Boil two cups of water. The roots should be bright white and just beginning to reach . Citronella is a beautiful plant with many benefits, but it can also be invasive if not taken care of properly. The plants grow best in full sun or partial shade, where they make an excellent ground cover plant in warmer areas. Keep your soil moist until new growth appears; once this happens use a little fertilizer once every two weeks until new growth starts forming again (around three months after planting). How much water does a citronella plant need, Do citronella plants work against mosquitoes. Although citronella is not 100% effective at repelling mosquitoes, its attractive and easy to grow. Though it doesnt actually repel mosquitoes, it is a popular plant for its attractive appearance and low maintenance needs. Outside the plant is fairly drought tolerant. Citronella will grow up to 4 feet (1.2 m) in a pot, so it's important to grab a pot that's at least 12 inches (30 cm) deep and 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) in diameter. Citronella has such a strong scent that it is added to candles designed to eradicate pet and smoke odors as well as repel insects. Why are my carrots all tops and no bottoms. In this video I'm going to show you how I propagate my citronella mosquito plant the easy way, so I can increase my collection without buying more. Your email address will not be published. Choose a site with bright sunlight and, if possible, a little afternoon shade to protect the plant's delicate leaves during the hottest parts of the day. Use your shears and snip off the top of each stalk and replant them to produce a new plant. Choose your cutting. If you want your citronella to root faster, you can cover the cuttings with a clear plastic wrap to close in moisture and warmth. Citronella plants need sufficient sunlight to grow. Out of all the citronella plant buy online we came across, we've chosen the 10 best. Citronella plants are usually propagated by seed to obtain more fragrant leaves. They need well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, such as composted manure or mulch. This type of grass grows 5 to 6 feet tall and has purplish-pink lower stems. If you do not have access to these plants, you might be able to. If you want to grow more citronella plants, they are easy to propagate from cuttings. Then, gently remove the plant from the container and take a peek at the roots. Dip the cuttings in the rooting hormone before you put them in the tray with rooting medium. Cut off a stem piece and strip all but two or three leaves from it so that only bare stems remain. If you do not have access to these plants, you might be able to find a friend or neighbor who can give you a cutting. It will be helpful for beginners who are looking to grow their own plants. These leaf spots can cause root rot. How Long Before Roots Develop When Propagating Thyme Cuttings, Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association, National Library of Medicine: The Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association: Failure of the "mosquito plant", Pelargonium x citrosum 'van Leenii', to repel adult Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus in Florida, How to grow your own herb garden in any indoor or outdoor space. The best time for pruning is in spring or early summer before it flowers. You will also want to choose plants that have been growing for at least two years so that they have time to develop their roots. Use a sharp knife or scissors to make the cut cleanly through both sides of the stem. The following tips will help you take care of your citronella plants to prevent them from becoming too large or out of control: The first step to take is locating where you would like to plant your citronella plants. Citronella plants are propagated through stem tip cuttings. Citronella Plant Care. A plant growing in the ground should be watered when its soil. Cut off all but two leaves. Keep the soil very moist and ensure that planting temperatures are between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Soil pH varies in different soil types. Step 1: Prepare the citronella cutting Citronella needs a lot of sun and humidity to grow. The type of pot does not matter. STEM CUTTING PROPAGATION STEPS The following steps explain how you can create a new individual through stem cutting. Luckily, it is OK to cut back or "pinch" your citronella plant. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Copyright 2017 - 2022 Justagric | Designed by Godwin Chibuike. Top 25 Perennial Flowers To Plant In Spring, 8 Practical Steps To Energize Your Raised Garden's Soil, Moses In The Cradle Growing Guide (Tradescantia spathacea), Flaming Katy Growing Guide (Florist Kalanchoe), Philodendron Mayoi Vs Xanadu (Difference & Similarities). It doesn't matter if your pot is plastic or ceramic. (15 Plants With Red Stems), Top 17 Plants with Heart Shaped Leaves (Indoor & Outdoor). These plants are best cultivated for their aesthetic qualities and their appealing scent. Too many leaves or leaves that are too large can dry out the cutting before it has a chance to form roots. These softwood cuttings are harvested from late spring to early summer and treated by dipping a rooting hormone before planting into propagation media. True citronella is a grass, which can be very effective at repelling mosquitoes. To propagate citronella geraniums, first take a cutting using a good pair of gardening shears or pruners to ensure a clean cut. To Help Prevent Pests and Disease, Regularly Mist the Leaves with Water. This essential oil is extracted by crushing the leaves. To do this, youll need a measuring device and some baking soda. If you want to plant your citronella in a pot, make sure that pot or container is deep. Remove the plant from the pot and place it in a bowl of water. Fertilizing a Citronella Plant is a crucial part of growing a healthy plant, and you can use a variety of fertilizers. This method works well for a clump with no obvious defects, although careful handling is necessary to avoid breaking the plant. The cymbopogon nardus is a relatively fast grower. Required fields are marked *. This ensures that the pH level is representative of the area. How long do I need to keep the citronella plant cutting in the homemade Root hormone? You should also keep the soil moist enough to prevent the roots from drying out. Fill a clean pot with a drainage hole with moist, sterile planting mix at least half of which is peat, vermiculite or sand. If the mixture bubbles or fizzes, it means that the soil is alkaline or acidic. Some authorities recommend applying products with the following ratios at most: 2 percent citronella grass, 0.1 percent lemongrass, 6 percent citronella geranium. [3] 3. Citronella has a very shallow root system so it won't feed on its own. When the weather cools, check the soil or potting mix every few days and water if it feels or looks dry. Light. The second step of cutting back citronella plants is best done after they have started blooming during the summer months. The lacey, fragrant leaves also work well in summer floral bouquets so feel free to prune often. I enjoy planting flowers and vegetables, watching them grow, then harvesting their fruits or veggies to cook with my family at dinner time. This will help to keep the leaves hydrated and . Plant them in the same type of soil you would use for adult citronella plants and keep them moist until they grow new leaves and stems. We omitted models that didn't meet our standards for specific needs and those which lacked a discreet profile. Citronella is a great plant for both indoor and outdoor gardens. Place the cutting in rooting compound so that one node is below the surface and one is above it. A well-grown clump should yield about 50 slips. When burying the citronella, ensure that the base is level with the top of the growth medium. . Place the plant in either full sun or a partially shaded area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Get a container that has small drainage holes near the bottom. Give in-ground plants 18 to 24 inches of space between plantings. You can mist them daily if necessary with water to keep them hydrated and prevent dehydration damage during rooting of the citronella plant stem tip cuttings. It's important to note that this plant requires at least six hours of sunlight to grow properly, but it can adapt to the different types of soils depending on where you are planting. Your citronella plant will root in about 4 to 6 weeks. The more common citronella plant in the United States is the citronella geranium (Pelargonium citrosum, USDA zones 9 to 11). document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi, I'm Matt! 27022020 Propagating Citronella in water or succulent combine the most effective crops to maintain Mosquitos away. All you need is a little bit of patience and knowledge about how to propagate these plants successfully. There are two types of citronella plants: citronella grass and a type of scented geranium plant that goes by a number of names and nicknames. Then dip this in rooting hormone before inserting it into moistened potting soil mix for citronella plants. If your citronella has become woody with browner leaves and is beginning to lose its effectiveness as a mosquito repellent, it is probably time to cut back the plant and start over. This makes it a very popular home garden herb. You can also add compost to the planting hole to improve soil quality. The plant can grow to be four feet tall. There is a few ways this can be done, but I find this. It is a great choice for beginners. Regardless of the plants location, youll want to apply a balanced water-soluble plant food to it every two weeks during the spring and summer months. Give your citronella plant a nutrition boost every 2 weeks. Six hours of sun a day is optimal. Before you plant your citronella plant cuttings, make sure that the cut is made at ground level and at the base of the leaf. As you can see, the process is pretty much easy and straightforward. . The plant needs to devote its resources to growing roots rather than supporting extraneous greenery. : by air-layering or stem cutting chemistry is necessary to ensure proper soil drainage during rainy periods it to. Is relatively rare in the homemade root hormone see, the plant is a popular plant is during springtime when. 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