Citronella Plant

Citronella plant

Citronella is probably one of the most common plants thought of when you think of mosquito-repellant plants. Many people wonder: Do citronella plants work? They are called the mosquito plant, and they give off a scent mosquitoes don't like. And they are effective in repelling mosquitoes in small areas.

Do citronella plants come back every year?

Yes citronella plants (both grass and geraniums) are perennial so they grow back each year. Both species need warm temperatures to thrive. In cold yards, they may die over winter. This leads some gardeners to grow annual citronella.

Where is the best place to put a citronella plant?

Place your citronella plant in full sun or a partially shaded area that receives at least six hours of sunlight each day. Citronella geraniums will survive outdoors year-round as a perennial in USDA plant hardiness zones 9b through 11—i.e. much of the West Coast, the Southwest, and the Southeast of the United States.

What is citronella plant good for?

Benefits of the Citronella Plant One of the most well-known uses of citronella plants is as a mosquito repellent. It functions well in this capacity whether placed around your living area (“fluff” it up when you go outside) or rubbed on skin or made into an oil or spray. Citronella also repels other bugs like flies.

What is the number one plant to repel mosquitoes?

Citronella Grass (Lemon Grass) Known for its distinct smell, citronella grass (or lemon grass) is the most commonly used natural ingredient in mosquito repellants. In fact, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden recommends lemon-scented plants such as citronella grass to keep mosquitoes at bay.

What is the best plant to keep mosquitoes away?

Plants that Repel Mosquitoes

• Citronella. Often labeled as “mosquito plants” in big-box stores, this leafy plant is actually a type of geranium.
• Lavender. Lavender oil's fragrant smell can help deter mosquitoes by preventing them from locating hosts.
• Marigolds. ...
• Rosemary, thyme, & basil.

Is citronella toxic to dogs?

Citronella candles and oils are a popular mosquito repellent, but the citronella plant is toxic to pets. Use caution when using citronella products around your pet, and make sure they don't have access to any citronella plants in your garden.

Can citronella grow in pots?

In northern climate zones citronella can be grown in a large pot or planter, ideally with casters, so it can be rolled indoors during winter. Gardening centers usually sell citronella as small plants in pots, ready to transplant to a larger pot or into raised garden beds on the ground.

What does citronella plants keep away?

Citronella has long been favored as one of the most effective plants that repel mosquitoes, which is why outdoor candles and bug sprays are often made with its oils. You can plant citronella grass right in your garden or optimize its efficiency by planting it near other mosquito-repellent plants, like lavender.

What bugs does citronella get rid of?

It is effective against a wide variety of pests, including but not limited to flies, mosquitoes, and ticks. Its distinctive odor drives away some insects, while preventing others from identifying a host. Candles made of Citronella oil work effectively to repel mosquitoes and insects when burned in the immediate area.

Why do bugs hate citronella?

Oil of citronella repels target pests rather than killing them. It works by masking scents that are attractive to insects. Thus, insects find it difficult to locate their target to feed. Oil of citronella may also work by masking odors attractive to animals.

Is citronella safe to touch?

When applied to the skin: Citronella oil is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people when applied to the skin as an insect repellent. It might cause skin reactions or irritation in some people. When inhaled: It's LIKELY UNSAFE to inhale citronella oil. Lung damage has been reported.

What kills mosquitoes the best naturally?

To naturally get rid of mosquitoes around the house, some popular methods include these:

• Burning coffee grounds.
• Lighting lavender candles.
• Leaving plates of sliced lemons or cloves around the house.
• Setting out mosquito traps.
• Spraying with essential oils such as lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus.

Does lavender keep mosquitoes away?

Lavender for Mosquito Control Not only does lavender keep mosquitoes away, but dried lavender is often used in sachets to repel moths and other pests from closets and wardrobes. Lavender does best with full sun and good drainage. While it does well in many climates, it thrives in warmer areas.

Do mosquitoes like lavender?

Yes, it's true -- lavender is an effective, natural repellent against mosquitoes, so you can stop the itch and smell good in the process.

How do landscapers keep mosquitoes away?

5 Landscaping Tips To Repel Mosquitoes

1. Use Cedar Mulch. Cedar has long been used as a natural way to repel and inhibit insects like termites, certain ants, moths, mosquitoes, and cockroaches.
2. Plant Lemongrass. ...
3. Add Geraniums And Marigolds. ...
4. Find And Remove Areas With Standing Water.

How do you take care of a citronella plant?

These mosquito repelling plants are extremely low maintenance. Just water them deeply when the soil dries. They do well in full or part sun. Indoor Mosquito plants should be kept near a sunny window, preferably a south or west facing window.

How do I repel mosquitoes forever?

How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes Outside

1. Eliminate Sources of Standing Water.
2. Try a broadcast treatment. ...
3. Clear Debris From Gutters. ...
4. Use Fans. ...
5. Light Citronella Candles. ...
6. Treat Ponds or Water Features.

What happens if dogs smell citronella?

Matejka says the plant's essential oils and tannic acid are gastrointestinal irritants for pets. This could result in your pup having abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea.

What happens if a dog licks citronella?

Citronella Dangers for Dogs If a dog ingests citronella, stomach irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, and neurological abnormalities may occur. Sprays and oils can cause skin irritation if they touch your pet's skin or paws for an extended period of time, and they may cause eye irritation if contact occurs.

10 Citronella plant Images