How to Water Citronella Plant
Pelargonium citronellum
Reviewed by Kiersten Rankel M.S.
Quick Answer
Water your Citronella Plant every 5–7 days during the growing season, when the top inch of soil is dry. Stretch to every 10–14 days through cool months as growth slows.
This is a scented Pelargonium. It tolerates brief drought better than soggy soil, so err on the side of letting it dry between waterings.
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How Often and How Much to Water
Adjust the sliders below for your pot size, light, and setting. The numbers assume a well-draining mix with perlite and a pot or site with drainage.
Setting
Every
9days
Use
1cup
Your Watering Rhythm Across the Year
Soil dries faster in the growing season, which varies by region. Slow down watering in the off-season to avoid overwatering.
Pacific
Mountain
Midwest
Northeast
Southeast
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Growing season
Growing season
9days
Resting season
3–4weeks
How to Water Your Citronella (anti-mosquito plant)
Water deeply at the soil line, in the morning. Pelargoniums rot fast in soggy conditions and bloom heaviest when allowed to dry between drinks.
1
Water in the morning so the leaves and soil surface dry before evening. This reduces botrytis and other fungal issues common to scented Pelargoniums.
2
Pour at the soil line, not on the leaves. Wet leaves in still indoor air invite fungal spots that ruin the foliage.
3
Soak slowly until water runs out the drainage holes. The whole rootball should be wetted, not just the top.
4
Empty the saucer after 10 minutes so the roots aren't sitting in standing water.
Should You Water Your Citronella (anti-mosquito plant) Today?
Citronella Plant tolerates a missed day far better than soggy roots. Soft drooping leaves are nearly always thirst, while soft stems at the soil line are always rot.
Hold off
Leaves firm and standing slightly upright
New growth tips firm and reaching
Top inch of soil still feels damp
Soil sits tight against the pot wall
Pot feels heavy when lifted
Ready for water
Leaves drooping or softening from the tips
New growth tips wilting first
Top inch of soil dry and crumbly
Visible gap between soil and pot wall
Pot feels noticeably light
If Something Looks Off
Pelargoniums show drought and root rot with similar drooping. The soil moisture and the speed of decline distinguish them.
Underwatered
Soil
Bone-dry and pulled away from the pot edge
Leaves
Whole plant drooping with crispy edges on older leaves
Pace
Sudden afternoon wilt that recovers within hours of a deep soak
Next steps
Soak the rootball thoroughly until water runs out the drainage holes
Move out of direct afternoon sun while the plant rehydrates
Expect leaves to lift back up within 6 to 12 hours
Existing crispy leaves won't recover, but the plant photosynthesizes from green parts. Wait for new growth before fertilizing
Overwatered
Soil
Stays dark and damp for days with a sour smell
Stem
Soft mushy or blackened where the main stem meets the soil
Leaves
Bottom leaves yellow all over with stunted new growth
Pace
Sudden collapse that worsens even after you stop watering
Next steps
Stop watering and move to a bright airy spot
Slip out of the pot and trim any black mushy roots back to firm white tissue
Repot in fresh well-draining mix with extra perlite in a clean pot with drainage holes
Wait until the top inch of soil is dry before the next watering
Watch for fungus gnats hovering above the soil, a near-universal sign the mix has stayed too wet too long
Got More Questions?
Does my Citronella Plant actually repel mosquitoes?
Modestly and only when the leaves are crushed or brushed. The plant releases its lemon scent on contact, not passively from sitting on a porch.
The plant is still a beautiful scented Pelargonium worth growing for itself. Don't expect it to clear a yard of mosquitoes the way a citronella torch does.
Can I use tap water on my Citronella Plant?
Yes. Pelargoniums tolerate ordinary tap water without issue.
If your tap is heavily softened, salt buildup over time can cause leaf-tip browning. Flush with plain water until it runs out the drainage holes 2 or 3 times every few months.
Why are my Citronella Plant's leaves yellowing?
Most often over-watering or low light. Soggy soil for over a week causes lower leaves to yellow uniformly, and indoor plants in dim light yellow from too few hours of bright light.
Check the soil moisture first. If wet, stop watering and improve drainage. If dry and the plant is in dim light, move closer to a south or west window.
How long can my Citronella Plant go without water?
About 7 to 10 days for an established plant in a 6 inch pot in moderate weather. Smaller pots and hot weather drop that to 3 to 5 days.
Deep-water before any extended absence and move out of the harshest afternoon sun. Pelargoniums tolerate drought better than over-watering, so error on the side of less.
Should I water differently in winter?
Much less. Citronella Plant goes nearly dormant indoors in cool conditions and wants to dry well between waterings.
Let the top 2 inches of soil dry, then water lightly. Watch for fungus gnats during winter as a sign you're watering too often. Reduce frequency until the gnats are gone.
Why are my Citronella Plant's stems getting woody and bare at the base?
Natural with age, sometimes accelerated by low light. Pelargoniums shed lower leaves and the stems lignify as the plant matures.
Pinch the growing tips to encourage branching, and prune back by a third in late winter to push fresh basal growth. Watering doesn't fix this directly but a healthy regular watering routine supports recovery.
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About This Article
Kiersten Rankel M.S.
Botanical Data Lead at Greg · Plant Scientist
Editorial Process
Watering guidance verified against Pelargonium citronellum growth data from Greg's botanical database, cross-referenced with USDA hardiness zone data and published horticultural research.
713+ Greg users growing this plant
USDA hardiness zones 9a–11b
Citations:
Royal Horticultural Society
Royal Horticultural Society