Citronella is a tropical grass also known as nard grass. Originally from Asia, its oil is commonly used as a mosquito repellent. When purchasing this plant, look for its true name, of either Citronella winterianus or Cymbopogon nardus, and beware of fake plants with claims such as "citronella scented." This ornamental grass is grown as a perennial in USDA Zones 10 to 12, reaches heights up to 6 feet tall, and has gray-green scented leaves that grow on cane-like stems. Does this Spark an idea?
Growing Conditions
The clump-forming citronella plant grows well in heavy soils yet still likes good drainage. An peat-based organic soil works well and can be mixed into the ground or container before planting.
Give your plant full sun in the cooler part of the day and partial shade in the afternoon. It does best in long, warm growing seasons and does not do well in damp, cold winters. If necessary, grow your plant in a container so that it can be moved indoors during the winter, otherwise it will need to be replanted in the spring after the ground warms up.
Water
Water your plant deeply, but do not let water stand or grow stagnant, because this plant does not like wet conditions. Citronella does best when allowed to dry out in between waterings. Check the soil before watering, and if it is dry down to 1 to 2 inches, then it should be watered. It needs 30 inches of water per year.
Fertilizing and Pruning
Feed your plant a high-nitrogen and potassium fertilizer about once per month. High nitrogen levels promote denser, greener foliage. (Nitrogen is the first number in the fertilizer nutrient ratio.)
Pruning is done just to cut out diseased or dying leaves and encourage more growth. Plants can be cut back to maintain shape if necessary.
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