Main points
Citronella , renowned for its mosquito - repelling properties , is a beloved herb that adds a touch of verdure and pest control to garden and patio . Whether you ’re exposit yourexisting citronella patchor relocate an overgrown plant , replanting is all-important for itscontinued healthand effectualness . Thiscomprehensive guidewill take the air you through the essential steps to ensure a successful citronella replanting experience .
Selecting the Right Location
Theideal locationfor your citronella plant is one that receive sizable sunlight , has well - drained grunge , and is protected from impregnable winds . Citronella prefers slightly acid dirt with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 . If your dirt is too alkaline , you’re able to add sulfur oraluminum sulfateto lower the pH.
Preparing the Soil
Before replanting , loosen the territory in the newfangled position to a depth of 12 - 18 inch . Amend the soil withorganic thing , such as compost orpeat moss , to improve its drain and fertility . Mix in a slow - release fertilizer accord to the manufacturing business ’s instructions .
Digging the Hole
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep . aim the plant in the hole and gently spread out theroots outward . take the hole with theamended soil , patting it down steadfastly to remove any line pockets .
Watering
pee thenewly planted citronella plant life deeplyand exhaustively . The ground should be moist but not muddy . Water regularly , especially during the first few weeks after replant , to facilitate theplant establishits roots .
Mulching
unfold a stratum of mulch around the base of the plant , keeping it a few inches away from the stem . Mulch helps keep on wet , suppress weeds , and regulate territory temperature .
Fertilizing
fertilise yourcitronella plantevery 4 - 6 weeks during thegrowing seasonwith abalanced fertilizer . keep off over - fertilizing , as this can sunburn the roots .
Pruning
Prune yourcitronella plant regularlyto remove deadened or morbid leaves and stem . Pruning alsoencourages shaggy-coated growthand better air circulation .
Winter Care
If you live in acold mood , you may take to protect yourcitronella plantfrom frost . Mulch heavy around the base of operations of the plant and consider covering it with afrost blanketor gunny .
Repotting
If yourcitronella planthas become pot - bound , you may need to repot it into a larger container . Repotting is similar to replanting , but you will need to use apotting mix specifically designedfor containers .
Pests and Diseases
Citronella is broadly speaking pest - resistant , but it can be susceptible to aphid , wanderer mite , and whitefly . goody infestations promptly with an insecticidal soap orneem oil . Citronella is also susceptible to ascendant rot , which can be prevented by check good drain and avoid overwatering .
Wrap-Up: Revitalize Your Citronella Sanctuary
By following these steps , you may successfully replant your citronella and enjoy its mosquito - repelling benefit for years to add up . Remember toprovide sizable sunlight , well - drained soil , and even care to keep your citronella plant thrive .
FAQ
Q : How often should I replant citronella?A : Citronella should be replanted every 2 - 3 years to exert its vim and strength . Q : Can Ireplant citronellain the same location?A : Yes , you canreplant citronellain the same locating as long as you amend the dirt withfresh organic matterand fertiliser . Q : What is the best meter to replant citronella?A : The good time toreplant citronellais in the spring orearly summerwhen the weather is meek and the soil is warm . Q : How deep should I found citronella?A : Plant citronellaso that the top of theroot ballis stage with the soil surface . Q : How much water does citronella need?A : urine citronella deeplyand regularly , specially during the first few weeks after replanting . Allow the soil to dry out slenderly between waterings . Q : How can I say if mycitronella plantis getting enough sunlight?A : Citronella plantsthat are not draw enough sun will have weak , leggy growthand may give rise fewer leave . Q : What are the signs of over - fertilizing citronella?A : Over - fertilizing citronellacan make the leaves toturn yellowor brown and the works to become stunted . Q : How can Iprevent source rotin citronella?A : forestall root rotin citronella byensuring in force drainageand avoiding overwatering .
