The citronella plant commonly grown is the scented geranium, Pelargonium citrosum, often sold as the “mosquito plant.” Gardeners take cuttings to maintain a desirable shape, prepare the plant for overwintering indoors, or increase their stock. The plant is popular for its strong, lemony scent, which is often associated with its use as a natural insect repellent.
Transforming Cuttings into New Plants
The primary use for a healthy cutting is to propagate a new, genetically identical plant. To begin this process, select a non-woody stem tip that is actively growing, ideally measuring between three and five inches in length. It is important to use a clean, sharp blade to make a cut just below a leaf node, which is the small bump on the stem where a leaf or branch emerges.
This node contains the dormant cells necessary for root development. After cutting, remove all foliage except for the top two or three leaves, as excess leaves cause the cutting to lose moisture quickly through transpiration. The remaining large leaves can be trimmed in half to further reduce water loss while the cutting focuses on forming roots.
You have two main choices for a rooting medium: water or a specialized soil mix. For a water-based method, place the cutting in a small glass of clean water, ensuring at least one node is submerged while the remaining leaves stay above the waterline. The water should be changed every few days to maintain oxygen levels and prevent bacterial growth.
A well-draining soil mix is often preferred for more robust rooting, such as a blend of perlite and potting soil or coarse sand. Dip the prepared end of the cutting into a rooting hormone powder, which stimulates root formation, before inserting it into the moist medium. Place the pot in a location that receives bright, indirect light; roots should begin to form within approximately four weeks.
Immediate Uses for Clipped Foliage
The clipped leaves and stem pieces still possess the plant’s signature scent. This citrus-like fragrance comes from volatile oils released when the leaves are crushed or disturbed. A quick way to utilize this is by rubbing the clipped leaves directly onto the skin to release a short-term, localized mosquito deterrent, though this effect is temporary and requires frequent reapplication.
For a longer-lasting indoor scent, the foliage can be air-dried and added to sachets or potpourri mixes. Spread the leaves in a single layer on a screen or tray in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area until they are completely dry and brittle. The dried material can then be placed in small breathable bags to freshen drawers or closets, slowly releasing the pleasant aroma over time.
To create a mosquito spray, infuse the clipped leaves in hot water to extract the scent. Steep a handful of crushed leaves in boiling water for several hours, then strain the liquid once it has cooled completely. This infusion can be transferred to a spray bottle for use as a light mist, but its efficacy as a repellent is generally milder and shorter-lived than commercial products.
Ensuring the Survival of New Growth
Identifying successful rooting is the next step once the cutting has been placed in its rooting medium. If the cutting was placed in soil, a gentle tug on the stem that meets with resistance indicates that new roots have formed and anchored the plant. For water-rooted cuttings, the appearance of small, white roots, usually after about a month, confirms readiness for the next phase.
Once rooting is established, the young plant must be gradually introduced to normal growing conditions, a process known as hardening off. If the cutting was kept in a high-humidity environment, such as under a plastic dome, the covering should be removed for progressively longer periods each day over a week. This step prepares the new growth for the less humid air of a typical home or garden.
The newly rooted plant should then be transplanted into a permanent container using a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the root ball to prevent the soil from holding too much moisture, which can lead to root rot. Citronella plants thrive in temperatures between 50°F and 80°F and require at least six hours of bright light daily, preferably with protection from intense afternoon sun.
Initial care involves maintaining consistent moisture without letting the soil become waterlogged; allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Avoid feeding the new plant immediately, as the focus is on root establishment, and the potting mix usually contains sufficient nutrients for the first few weeks. Regular pinching of the growing tips will encourage a bushier, fuller plant structure rather than a tall, leggy one.