One of the most annoying things about summer is mosquitoes. For those people who have a garden, it is usually even more annoying, since mosquitoes will be more abundant. In these cases, one of the most effective home remedies is to have a anti-mosquito geraniumThese plants have the ability to keep mosquitoes away from your garden, working as a natural repellent.
In this article, we are going to tell you about the characteristics of mosquito-repellent geraniums, their care and how they can help us reduce the presence of these insects, providing exhaustive details about their operation and the best practices for their maintenance indoors and outdoors.
Key features
The mosquito repellent geranium is scientifically known as Pelargonium Citrodorum, although it is also called lemon geranium or citronella geranium due to its strong citrus aroma, similar to that of citronella.
It is a perennial herb which rarely exceeds half a metre in height, with a similar spread, making it ideal for both gardens and pots. Its leaves are green, thick, triangular in shape and with serrated edges, characteristics that not only give it a very attractive aesthetic, but when cut they give off a strong citrus aroma that is not only pleasant for humans, but also acts as a mosquito repellent and other insects.
Geranium flowers, which appear in clusters, have five petals and vary in color from pink to purple with darker shades in the center. These flowers are of great ornamental value.
Its flowering period It begins in late winter and can continue until late summer., depending on the climate. In colder regions it may take longer to flower. However, in warmer climates, flowering may occur earlier.
Where to place mosquito repellent geranium?
The mosquito geranium is a versatile plant and easy to care. One of the keys to its good development is to guarantee an optimal location. This plant requires good lighting, so it is advisable to place it in well-lit places, but protected from the sun. Direct sun during the hottest hours if you are in very hot climates. If grown outdoors, it is suggested to choose a partially shaded area, avoiding exposure to direct midday sun.
In the case of indoor cultivation, it is best to place the geranium near a well-lit window, but always out of the reach of direct sunlight, especially in the hottest months. You can even Take it outside in the morning or at dusk, when temperatures are not so extreme.
As for ventilation, the plant should be in areas with good air circulation to prevent moisture build-up. In addition, the Geranium does not tolerate frostIf temperatures drop below 0ºC for several days, it is best to bring it indoors or protect it with specific thermal blankets for plants.
Irrigation and substrate
The mosquito geranium is a plant that requires little water. Watering should be moderate, as it does not tolerate waterlogging well. The most important thing is to prevent water from accumulating in its roots, as excess moisture can cause rotting problems. An efficient way to water is to do it approximately every three days in summer and reduce the frequency to once or twice a week in winter, making sure the substrate has dried before watering again.
If you are growing the geranium in a pot, you must make sure that it has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation. Always remove excess water from the bottom plate of the pot to prevent disease.
As for the substrate, it must allow good drainage to avoid the accumulation of moisture. A good option is to use a mixture containing coconut fiber, worm humus and peat in equal parts. You can also add vermiculite and perlite to improve water retention without causing puddles.
Geraniums benefit from monthly fertilization in the warmer months, using organic fertilizers or organic matter. This will help the plant to flower profusely and maintain its vigor.
Maintenance and reproduction
To ensure healthy growth and abundant flowering, it is important to carry out some maintenance care in the mosquito repellent geranium.
Pruning Pruning should be done between late winter and early spring, before the plant begins to flower, cutting back the longest stems to encourage the growth of new shoots. It is also essential to remove dried flowers and parts that may be in poor condition.
As for reproduction, the simplest and most efficient way to multiply this plant is through cuttingsThese can be done in spring, summer or autumn. To do this, cut a stem with some shoots and remove the lower leaves before inserting it into a suitable substrate mix. The cuttings usually root within a couple of weeks.
It is also possible to root the cuttings in water, leaving them in a container with water, changing it frequently until roots appear, and then transplanting them to a pot.
How does the anti-mosquito geranium work?
El anti-mosquito geranium emits an aroma that is unpleasant for mosquitoes and other flying insects. This aroma comes from the geraniol and citronellol, essential oils that the plant releases into the environment. These components are not harmful to humans, but for insects, including mosquitoes, flies and ants, they are powerful deterrents.
Although this method is effective in keeping mosquitoes at bay, it is not a foolproof or definitive method. Geraniums can help significantly reduce the presence of these insects in gardens or terraces, but they will not completely eliminate the threat of bites.
In addition to acting as repellents, these natural oils also have antibacterial and antifungal properties, which not only protects the plant, but also helps keep the environment pest-free. In the case of gardens, the presence of geraniums can be beneficial in attracting pollinating insects.
On the other hand, mosquito repellent geranium offers an environmentally friendly solution. Unlike chemical repellents, it does not emit toxic products and is completely safe for both people and pets.
In addition, the citrus aroma of this plant has a relaxing effect for many people, making it ideal for decorating both exteriors and interiors, with the added value of its therapeutic benefits.
The mosquito-repellent geranium is, without a doubt, a recommended option for keeping outdoor spaces free of annoying insects in the summer months, while beautifying our gardens with its long and colourful flowering.