How to Root a Citronella Plant Information
Citronella, a member of the geranium family, acts as a perennial in warm climates with mild winters. Its citrus-like scent repels mosquitoes. Citronella oil is used in candles, bug sprays and numerous other insect repellent products. Growing citronella at home can be rewarding and beneficial. These plants make large, bushy, green deck plants when pruned and trimmed properly. They also serve as a personal bug repellent source. Rub an exposed areas of skin with a crushed leaf to prevent irritating bug bites. Propagate citronella from cuttings, and one plant can quickly become many. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Citronella cuttings
- Rooting medium
- Planting tray
- Rooting hormone
- Large, clear plastic bag
- Sterilized scissors
Instructions
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Rooting a Plant
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1
Fill a planting tray with a nutrient-rich rooting medium purchased from a local nursery or home improvement store.
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2
Trim citronella cuttings into 3- to 4-inch sections. Use sterilized scissors to make clean cuts.
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3
Dip the cut ends of the citronella cuttings into rooting hormone. Lightly tap off any extra hormone powder. Place the powdered ends into the rooting medium and press the soil around them to secure the cuttings firmly in place.
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4
Water the tray to settle the planting medium around the cuttings.
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5
Place the entire planting tray in a large, clear plastic bag. Tie the open end of the bag off while leaving a lot of air inside of it to create a large "balloon" effect. This will keep the bag from pressing down on the cuttings and create a greenhouse effect in which the plants can root and grow quickly.
Keep the planting medium moist while the cuttings begin to root. Periodically check the tray, adding moisture before the tray dries out.
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6
Take the planting tray out of the bag after one month and transplant the cuttings to the desired final location.
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