Does Citronella Come Back Every Year?

If you are wondering whether citronella plants come back every year, the answer depends on where you live and how you care for the plant. Citronella, known for its strong lemon scent, is a beautiful and functional plant that many gardeners love to have in their outdoor spaces.

One important factor to consider is the climate in your region. Citronella is a perennial plant, meaning that it can come back year after year in zones 9-11, which have milder winter temperatures. In these zones, you can enjoy the benefits of your citronella plant throughout the year, as it will continue to grow and thrive.

For those living outside of zones 9-11, where winters can be harsh, you may have to take extra steps to ensure the survival of your citronella plant. One option is to bring the plant indoors before the winter season arrives. If your citronella is in a pot, it can be moved indoors to a sunny spot where it will continue to grow during the colder months.

When caring for your citronella plant indoors, make sure to provide it with adequate sunlight and water. Citronella plants thrive in bright, indirect light and require regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Proper indoor care can help your citronella plant stay healthy and ready to be moved back outdoors when the weather warms up.

In addition to bringing your citronella plant indoors during the winter, another option is to treat it as an annual in colder climates. This means that you would replant citronella each year, either by starting new plants from seeds or purchasing established plants for the growing season.

Regardless of the approach you choose, citronella plants can add beauty and functionality to your outdoor space. Whether you enjoy its lemony fragrance or use it as a natural insect repellent, taking care of your citronella plant can be a rewarding experience.

So, to answer the question “Does citronella come back every year?” the answer is yes in zones 9-11 where it is a perennial, and with proper care, you can enjoy your citronella plant year after year. For those in colder climates, bringing the plant indoors or treating it as an annual are viable options to continue enjoying the benefits of this versatile plant.

Does Citronella Come Back Every Year?

Photo of author

Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.