Citronella plants are know for their ability to repel mosquitoes , making them a popular choice for outside garden . However , their endurance during wintertime can vary depending on the climate and locating . In general , citronella plants expand best in warm weather and are well - suited for outdoor growth in hardiness zones 9 to 11 . These zones typically have mild wintertime with temperatures that do not drop below freezing for prolonged period .

For those living in cooler climates where winter temperature can be rough , it is important to take steps to protect your citronella plant . One selection is to spring up them in containers that can be moved indoors during the winter months . This allows you to create a controlled environment that mimics the plant ’s preferent conditions .

When devise to bring your citronella plants indoors for the wintertime , there are a few central considerations to keep in head . First , ensure that the containers they are in have near drain to prevent waterlogging . This can be achieved by using potbelly with drainage holes or adding a layer of gravel at the bottom of the container .

Before land the plant indoors , it is a estimable idea to inspect them for any sign of plague or disease . This is especially of import when transitioning plants from an outdoor to an indoor surround , as pest can easily hitch a drive on the plants and infest your home . If necessary , treat the plants with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide to eliminate any possible issues .

Once indoors , citronella plant life should be place in a emplacement that receives bright , indirect sunlight . A south - facing window is often a effective choice , as it provides ample light throughout the sidereal day . However , be mindful of rough drawing from window or doors , as this can cause temperature variation that may accentuate the industrial plant .

While indoors , it is important to monitor the moisture storey of the soil . Citronella plants prefer a well - drain soil that is kept slightly damp but not overly saturated . check off the soil on a regular basis and piss as needed , taking guardianship not to overwater . Prolonged periods of wet soil can lead to root rot and other issues .

During the winter months , citronella plant may have a period of sleeping where growth retard or stops altogether . This is a innate response to the humble calorie-free degree and cooler temperature of the indoor environment . It is important to align your outlook accordingly and not be alert if the plant seem to be less participating during this metre .

In the bounce , as temperature begin to warm up and daylight hour increase , you may start acclimate your citronella plants to out-of-door conditions again . This can be done gradually by placing the flora in a sheltered outdoor position for a few hours each solar day , bit by bit increasing the clock time spend alfresco over a stop of week . This process , known as hardening off , help the flora adjust to the outdoor environment without being ball over by the sudden variety in conditions .

While citronella plants are best suited for outdoor growth in warm climates , they can still be enjoyed in cooler regions by originate them in container and bringing them indoors for the winter . By providing the proper care and weather condition , you could serve your citronella plants hold up the wintertime and continue to enjoy their mosquito - repelling benefits year after year .

Caroline Bates