Citronella is a perennial grass (Cymbopogon nardus or Cymbopogon winterianus) known for its distinct, potent lemon scent. This fragrance comes from volatile compounds, including citronellal, which gives the plant its pest-repellent properties. A member of the lemongrass family, this tropical plant grows in dense clumps with long, slender leaf blades. Learning how to properly harvest and preserve this aromatic foliage allows for the utilization of its natural compounds in various home applications. This guide provides steps for maximizing the yield and potency of your harvested citronella material.
Distinguishing Citronella Varieties and Optimal Timing
A frequent source of confusion is the difference between true Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon) and the plant often sold commercially as “Citronella Plant,” which is a scented geranium (Pelargonium citrosum). True citronella grass has tall, narrow, lance-shaped leaves and sometimes a reddish hue at the base of the stems. The scented geranium, by contrast, has feathery, lobed leaves and may produce small purple or pink flowers. Only the Cymbopogon species contains the high percentage of essential oil effective as a repellent.
The timing of harvest directly influences the concentration of aromatic oils. Wait until the plant is fully mature, typically six to eight months after planting or in its second year of growth. The best season for a large harvest is late summer or early fall, just before the first expected frost. Harvest in the mid-morning, right after the dew has dried from the foliage. This timing allows the essential oil content to reach its peak concentration before the heat of the day causes volatile compounds to dissipate.
Step-by-Step Harvesting Technique
Use clean, sharp cutting tools, such as pruning shears or a knife, to make precise, clean cuts on the stalks. This prevents unnecessary damage and tearing to the plant tissue, which could invite disease or slow regrowth. Target the mature, outer stalks and leaves of the clump, as these are the ones with the highest oil content.
Cut the stems about 6 to 8 inches (20 to 45 centimeters) above the ground. It is recommended to cut only the leaf blade and leave the leaf sheath, the part of the leaf that wraps around the stem. The sheath contains very little oil and is often of lower quality. Leaving a small portion of the stem intact helps encourage vigorous new growth from the base of the plant.
To maintain the overall health and sustainability of the citronella clump, apply the “rule of thirds.” This horticultural principle suggests removing no more than one-third of the total plant mass during any single harvest event. Removing excessive foliage can severely stress the plant, weakening its ability to photosynthesize and recover.
Curing and Storing Harvested Material
Immediately after harvesting, the material should undergo a curing or wilting process. This involves air-drying the leaves for approximately 24 hours to reduce the plant’s high water content. Reducing moisture increases the concentration of the essential oils.
For preservation, gather the citronella stalks into small, loose bundles and secure them with twine. Hang these bundles upside down in a location that is dark, dry, and has good air circulation. A dark environment is important because exposure to light can degrade the aromatic compounds, leading to a loss of potency.
Once the leaves are completely dry and brittle, strip them from the stalks and crush or leave them whole. Transfer the dried material into an opaque, airtight container, such as a dark glass jar or a sealed paper bag, for final storage. Keeping the dried leaves away from light, heat, and humidity ensures the insect-repelling properties are retained for several months.
Practical Applications for Citronella
The preserved citronella material can be used in numerous ways to benefit from its natural insect-repelling qualities.
Practical Applications
- Creating natural repellent bundles by tying a handful of fresh or dried stalks together. These bundles can be strategically placed on patios or near outdoor seating areas to release their scent and deter flying insects.
- Making a topical infusion by bruising fresh, crushed leaves and steeping them in a carrier oil, such as olive or almond oil, for several weeks. The resulting infused oil can then be lightly applied to the skin, after a small patch test for sensitivity, to act as an insect barrier.
- Using dried citronella leaves in DIY projects like aromatic sachets or potpourri. Placing the dried, crushed leaves into small fabric bags in closets or drawers adds a pleasant citrus scent while discouraging pests.
- Utilizing fresh leaves to make homemade sprays by soaking them in a mixture of witch hazel or alcohol and water, creating a refreshing, lightly scented mist.