Mosquito plants may repel mosquitoes.
The mosquito plant is a type of scented geranium or pelargonium. These are not like the red or pink flowered geraniums found in old-fashioned flower boxes. The scented leaves are the important part of the plant and the flower is not important or as big. The mosquito plant leaves give off a citronella scent that is supposed to repel mosquitoes. Does this Spark an idea?
History
It is said that a Dutch botany team developed the mosquito plant by crossing a scented geranium with Chinese citronella grass. They discovered the scent was similar to that of citronella candles reputed to keep mosquitoes away. Some say that this history is a hoax and the plant is actually a hybrid bred from two scented geraniums.
Description
Mosquito plants are an annual that will not tolerate cold weather. They can usually be purchased in a large pot to set on the patio or on a picnic table. In warm climates the plant can grow over 2 feet high. The plant does produce flowers but they are nothing like regular geraniums. The flowers are very small and insignificant. They are a lavender in color. Leaves are green and when rubbed emit the fragrance. Leaves are similar to a fat tomato plant leaf.
Planting
Place purchased plants in a pot that is at least 4 inches in diameter. It may be necessary to pot in a larger pot later in the summer because of its growth rate, so planting in a 10- to 12-inch pot is more advantageous even though the plant will look small at first. Mosquito plants can be planted in deep window boxes and spaced about 10 inches apart. Place the window boxes all along the patio to create a barrier for pesky mosquitoes. Plant in regular potting soil up to the soil level of the pot it was in.
Care
Keep the soil moderately moist as the plant does not like to dry out. Mosquito plants will benefit from water-soluble houseplant fertilizer. Fertilized two weeks after planting and then again one month later. The plant grows fast on its own so it should not need more fertilization. Place the plant in full sun or in partial shade. When the weather gets cold bring it indoors. It will need either grow lights or a greenhouse to stay alive indoors.
Use
Take a few leaves, crush them and rub them on the skin to keep mosquitoes away. Some say just having the plant nearby will deter the pests. Before applying to the skin it is a good idea to test it on a small area for about 30 minutes to make sure there will be no allergic reaction on the skin. Do not expect them to keep all mosquitoes away and some say the plants do not work at all.
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