Q.Citronella Wintering Over
I wintered over a lovely citronella (mosquito) plant; it’s showing signs of fatigue. Can I safely re-plant with new potting soil mix NOW, or should I wait? Should I choose a larger pot? It also wintered over last year, and was such a lovely, robust plant by summer that I can’t bear to let it die–so I brought it in again this year. How long might citronella plants live?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
This time of year, all plants that are overwintered to simply survive look a little pathetic. Repotting won't help right at this moment to improve how it looks. Try to get it more light and humidity. Water it only when the soil feels dry to the touch at top. Then, acclimate it (https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/hpgen/move-houseplant-outside.htm) to move back outside as soon as the weather allows. Even if it looks really ragged by the time it moves back outside, it will bounce back quickly and look beautiful in no time. In short, wait to repot as it will not help now.
