The Citronella Plant most commonly sold is a scented geranium, Pelargonium citrosum, known for its aromatic foliage. This geranium requires specific moisture management for robust growth. Proper watering is the most important factor in maintaining the health of this plant. The citronella geranium is susceptible to root issues if the moisture balance is incorrect.
Foundational Watering Technique
The primary rule for watering the citronella geranium is to prioritize depth over frequency. The goal is to saturate the entire root ball, encouraging deep and strong root development. This ensures the plant receives a thorough drink.
The most reliable way to determine if your plant needs water is the “finger test.” Insert your index finger about one to two inches deep into the soil. If the soil feels dry at this depth, water the plant thoroughly.
Apply water slowly until you see it drain freely from the holes at the bottom of the container. This complete soaking prevents mineral salt buildup. After 15 to 20 minutes, empty the plant saucer completely. Allowing the root system to sit in standing water quickly leads to root rot.
Seasonal and Environmental Adjustments
The frequency of watering established by the “finger test” will fluctuate based on the environment and the time of year. During the active summer growing season, especially in high heat or direct sun, you may need to water every few days. Container-grown specimens dry out faster than those planted in the ground, necessitating closer monitoring.
During the winter months, when the plant enters a period of reduced growth, its water needs decrease. For plants overwintered indoors, reduce watering frequency, allowing the top two to three inches of soil to become dry before adding moisture. Cooler temperatures and lower light levels slow the plant’s metabolism and reduce water evaporation.
Humidity and light exposure also influence the rate of water loss. Plants placed in areas with low humidity or intense sun will transpire moisture more quickly, requiring a higher frequency of watering. Established in-ground plants can tolerate periods of drought, though consistent deep watering still produces the best foliage.
Soil Composition and Drainage Requirements
The success of your watering efforts depends on the quality and structure of the growing medium. Citronella geraniums require a highly porous, well-draining soil that prevents water from lingering around the roots. Heavy or compacted soil holds excessive moisture.
An ideal mix involves a standard potting mix amended with materials that increase drainage and aeration. Incorporating perlite, coarse sand, or pumice at a ratio of 20 to 30% of the total volume is effective. This amendment ensures that excess water rapidly moves through the container, allowing the roots access to oxygen.
The container itself must have unimpeded drainage holes at the base; a lack of proper drainage is the leading cause of watering failure. Clay or terracotta pots are beneficial because their porous nature allows some moisture to evaporate through the container walls, preventing a perpetually soggy environment.
Identifying Hydration Stress
Learning to read the plant’s physical signals is essential for diagnosing a watering problem. The symptoms of overwatering and underwatering can initially appear similar, as both result in a wilting appearance. However, the condition of the leaves and the soil moisture level provide the necessary distinction.
An underwatered citronella plant will display general drooping, and the soil will often appear dry and may pull away from the pot’s edges. The leaves will feel dry and brittle, and the edges may become crispy or brown as the plant sacrifices outer tissues to conserve moisture. This wilting is a sign of thirst and recovers quickly after a thorough watering.
In contrast, an overwatered plant will wilt even though the soil feels wet or soggy to the touch. The leaves, especially the lower ones, will turn yellow and may feel soft or mushy, indicating cell breakdown from lack of oxygen. Mushy stems and a sour soil odor are definitive signs of root rot, where the roots have decayed and can no longer absorb water.