Overview
Citronella plants ( Cymbopogon nardus ) , get it on for theirlemony scentand mosquito - loathsome properties , are a popular plus to many gardens . Proper pruning is substantive for maintain their wellness , promoting lush growing , and maximise their effectiveness as natural insect repellents . This comprehensive guidebook will provide you with a footstep - by - step approach on how to prunecitronella plantseffectively .
When to Prune
The best time to prune citronella plants is in late winter orearly bound , before Modern growth set out . Pruning at this time allows the plant to retrieve from any terms because of thecold weatherandencourages vigorous growthduring the growing season .
Tools You’ll Need
Step-by-Step Pruning Instructions
1 . Remove utter or Diseased Stems : Inspect theplant carefullyand polish off any base that are dead , diseased , or damage . Cut thesestems backto the al-Qaida of the plant.2 . Thin OutOvercrowded Stems : Citronella plantscan become overcrowded if notpruned regularly . Thin out stem that are growing too close together by removing the washy or less vigorous ones . This will allow the stay stems to originate more freely.3 . dress Back Overgrown Stems : Long , overgrown stemscan become top - heavy and susceptible to breakage . Trim back these stem by about one - third to two - thirds of their length.4 . regulate the Plant : you could mould thecitronella plantto yourdesired formby pruning it into a specific shape . For a rounded form , cut backthe stems to an adequate height . For a more upright cast , trim the stems to unlike heights , with the tallest stems in the center.5 . Prune for Bushiness : If you want abushier citronella plant , prune it back by about half its size of it . This will encourage the industrial plant to raise moreside shoots , resulting in a fuller appearance.6 . Remove Flower Heads : Citronella plant produce flower headsthat can take away from the plant life ’s appearance and concentrate its effectiveness as aninsect repellant . take out these flower heads as presently as they appear by write out them back to the theme of the stem.7 . Clean Up Debris : After pruning , cleanse up any debris around the plant , admit fallen stemsand leaves . This will helpprevent diseaseand pests .
Additional Pruning Tips
Benefits of Pruning Citronella Plants
Pruning citronella plant offer numerous welfare , include :
Wrapping Up
Pruning citronella plants is a simple but essential labor that can importantly improve their wellness , visual aspect , and effectiveness . By follow the dance step - by - step instructionsand additional tips provided in this guide , you may insure that your citronella plants expand andprovide yearsof enjoyment and louse auspices .
FAQ
Q : How often should I prune my citronella plant?A : Prune yourcitronella plantonce a year , inlate winteror early spring . Q : Can I rationalize mycitronella plantin the summer?A : you could dress yourcitronella plantin the summer if necessary , but it is best toavoid pruningduring red-hot , dry atmospheric condition . Q : How low should I prune my citronella plant?A : Prune yourcitronella industrial plant backto about one - third to two - thirds of its size of it . Q : Will rationalize mycitronella plant life makeit grow more?A : Yes , pruning yourcitronella plantwill encourage it to produce moreside shoots , resulting in a full coming into court . Q : What should I do with the prunings?A : you may compost the prunings or expend them as mulch around your citronella plant .
