Citronella Plant Winter Care

Bracing for the chill? Learn how to shield your citronella plant this winter with our top citronella plant winter care strategies.

The popular citronella plant has earned several nicknames throughout its lifetime.

You may have heard it named lemon geranium or mosquito plant. These names are typically associated with Pelargonium Citrosum, a particular variety of fragrant geranium.

The citronella plant is well-known for its potent, citrus-like scent that swiftly rises from its crushed leaves; however, no proof supports the claims that it keeps mosquitoes and other insects away.

While citronella isn't a foolproof way to ward off insects, it remains an aromatic and easy-to-grow addition to any garden.

Still, while these concerns mostly relate to the summertime, what happens when the temperatures drop?

There’s no need to worry just yet - we have your back! We'll guide you through citronella plant winter care so it can stay alive and healthy year-round!

Can Citronella Survive Winter?

If you're a passionate gardener, you might be concerned about how to keep a citronella plant alive in winter.

These fragrant plants give any yard a hint of exotic appeal while also being well-known for their ability to keep insects away.

Can they withstand the freezing cold and gusty gusts, though?

Let's examine the elements that impact the plant’s survival rates and offer advice on citronella plant winter care.

Citronella plants thrive in temperatures ranging from 59 to 69 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 21 degrees Celsius).

Exposure to lower temperatures can hinder its growth. Thus, in colder regions, you should bring them indoors to prevent the possibility of frost.

For this reason, you may need to think about overwintering your mosquito plant, especially if you live in a cold climate.

Can I Bring Citronella Indoors?

Citronella plants can double as unique and stylish indoor plants, adding a touch of sophistication to any space.

As part of your citronella plant winter care, transplanting would be a smart idea if you live in an area with temperatures falling below their ideal range.

All you need to do is make sure the plants are facing windows that face west or south so they will receive adequate light.

Plus, this exposure guarantees that the plants grow straight rather than lanky or spindly stems.

Please be aware that these plants are highly susceptible to drafts, especially in chilly winters.

If that’s the case, simply put them in a covered area. The plant will enter a forced dormant state if these efforts are not made.

Are Citronella Plants Able To Return Each Year?

Absolutely! Citronella is a resilient little trooper that can keep on thriving year after year with care.

Before winter rolls in, give your plants a once-over to ensure they are clear of pests and illnesses.

However, if your citronella looks a bit under the weather, attempting to overwinter it might not be the best idea.

Watch out for signs of infestation like aphids or spider mites, and if found, let the plant rest as it is until spring.

For healthy plants, gently transplant them into pots after cutting them back to about a third of their original size.

When overwintering mosquito plants, choose a mix that's well-suited for indoor use, as garden soil can be too heavy and lack proper drainage and aeration.

Once you've repotted, water the plants well but allow the soil to dry a bit before bringing the pots.

It's best to keep them until before winter sets in. Once winter arrives, bring the plants indoors so they have time to adjust to their environment.

To promote branching and ensure proper citronella plant winter care, you'll need to pinch the branches a few times.

As long as your plants receive water and light, they will thrive indoors.

How to Take Care of Citronella During Winter?

It's quite simple to prepare your citronella plant for the winter season.

By following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that your plant thrives when spring arrives.

1. Provide Regular Watering

If you own a citronella plant, you probably know how crucial it is to water it for its health.

The plant still requires water to endure the winter, even if it is not actively growing.

To maintain its happiness and well-being, ensure the soil stays damp but not overly saturated.

2. Apply Fertilizer in Moderate Amounts

Citronella plants are wonderful, especially for keeping mosquitoes and other insects due to their lemony fragrance.

Although they don't require fertilization, applying a fertilizer every few weeks in the winter season is beneficial to ensure their health and vigor.

To avoid the possibility of root rot, it is crucial not to overwater citronella plants. Instead, let the soil fully dry out between watering times.

3. Prune the Citronella

Pruning citronella plant in winter is beneficial. It's not just about aesthetics; it helps promote healthy growth.

• Start by trimming any drooping leaves from your citronella plant.
• Then, proceed to trim the stems according to their requirements.
• As spring approaches and citronella plant winter care is over, trim a few inches off the stem to stimulate growth.

4. Protect Your Beloved Plant from Pests

It is very important to ensure the well-being of your citronella plant by safeguarding it against pests and diseases.

One effective method is to mist the leaves with water to maintain their moisture levels and prevent them from drying.

Also, make sure to clear away any leaves or debris. Especially in the vicinity of the plant, as they can serve as breeding grounds for pests and diseases.

If you happen to notice any pests or signs of illness on your plant, taking action is crucial in preventing damage and spread.

By following these tips, you can maintain the health and vitality of your citronella plant throughout the winter season.

Want More…

Taking care of your greens can get rather challenging when the temperatures drop, but not if you follow our citronella plant winter care guide!

Want to keep your plants alive, just like we do? You can do that by reading the rest of our blogs!

Thanks for reading!