Citronella, also known as mosquito plants or scented geraniums, However, citronella as we think of it is the main type of citronella oil used to make bug repellents. Citronella is a common name for a variety of scented geranium that also has the ability to repel mosquitoes. Citronella has long been used in candles, soaps, and other products because of its strong scent.
Cymbopogon is a genus of plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. The only member of the genus is Cymbopogon nardus, which is commonly known as lemongrass. This evergreen shrub grows to 3 to 5 feet tall and has fragrant, yellow flowers that are pollinated by bees. The leaves are aromatic and used in Southeast Asia to flavor food and to repel mosquitoes. Lemongrass oil is derived from the distillate of the plant’s leaves and bark.
Mosquito Repellent-Citronella vs. lemongrass : What’s the difference?
Citronella and lemongrass are both commonly used in aromatherapy to provide a refreshing scent. However, there is a difference between the two plants that should be taken into account when using them for therapy. Citronella is derived from the citronella grass plant, while lemongrass comes from the lemongrass tree. Both plants have different oils that can be used in aromatherapy, but citronella has a more pungent odor than lemongrass.
Lemongrass and citronella are two common mosquito repellents. Lemongrass is more effective than citronella, but both products have their own benefits and drawbacks. Lemongrass is more expensive than citronella, but it’s also more effective. It’s important to use the right product for the right situation.
Does a citronella plant come back every year?
A plant that comes back every year is definitely one you’ll want to add to your garden! Not only does a citronella plant provide beautiful, long-lasting flowers, but it also releases a calming scent that can help keep pests and mosquitoes at bay. Plus, the unique foliage is great for adding visual interest to any garden.
How to care for your citronella plant over winter?
If you’ll love the smell of citronella in the winter! Citronella plants are great for adding a natural scent to your home or garden, and they’re also great for repelling mosquitoes. Overwintering citronella plants is simple – just follow these tips.
- Take cuttings of citronella before winter starts.
- Collect the cutting of citronella
- Keep it simple in Your pot
- Find an open sunny part of your yard
- Plant the citronella when it’s around 65 °F (18 °C).
- Plant it in a deep pot if you grow it in a container.
- Use the well-drained soil to dry water soon
- Add a thin layer of soil-based compost.
- Add your citronella plant.
Watering and Caring
- Water every 1-2 weeks
- Give the fertilizer every 10-14 days
- Once the flower starts booming, use the high-potassium fertilizer
- Cover the citronella in compost in the winter
What is lemongrass and how is it used?
Lemongrass is a citrus-based herb that is used to add spice to foods and as an aromatic agent. Lemongrass infusion has a warm, woodsy scent that can be used in many dishes. It is also good for respiratory issues and can help ease congestion.
What do you need to know about citronella essential oil?
Citronella essential oil is a powerful natural pesticide and insecticide. It’s also been used for centuries to treat headaches, colds, flu, and other common problems. In fact, citronella essential oil is one of the most popular essential oils on the market today.
- “Oil of Citronella.” US EPA, EPA, 1997, www3.epa.gov/pesticides/chem_search/reg_actions/reregistration/fs_PC-021901_1-Feb-97.p
- CBCnews, CBC/Radio Canada, www.cbc.ca/news2/background/consumers/citronella.html.