How to Take Care of a Citronella Plant

Overview

Citronella is a scented geranium in the Pelargonium genus that is said to help keep mosquitoes and other flying insects away from areas where it grows. It's an attractive annual with small lavender flowers that does very well as a potted plant, although you can plant it in your garden if you like. It grows to about 2 feet tall. Because the citronella-scented geranium is a patented hybrid, it is available only as a starter plant and not as seeds. You can most likely find this fragrant plant in a small pot at your local nursery.

Step 1

Transplant your young citronella geranium to a larger pot or into your garden. If you're repotting it, use a good potting soil that will provide good drainage. If you'll be planting it in the ground, choose an area with good drainage that receives full sun 6 to 8 hours each day. This plant also thrives where air circulation around it is good.

Step 2

Water your citronella geranium well after you plant it and keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Step 3

Pinch off any leaves that turn yellow---this is a normal occurrence. You can also prune any spent flowers or rambling branches to keep it looking attractive.

Step 4

Fertilize with a high nitrogen plant food once each month to keep the leaves green.

Step 5

Control insects such as scale with insecticidal soap or a combination of canola oil mixed with it. One tablespoon of oil to 1 qt. of soapy water is the correct proportion.