Detailed Guide to Hydroponics and Care of the Mosquito Repellent Plant

How to grow and care for the mosquito repellent plant in water?

The mosquito repellent plant, also known as mosquito repellent scented leaf, is a perennial evergreen herbaceous plant with vigorous vitality. It can be grown indoors in both southern and northern China.

1. Hydroponic methods

(1) Method one: The mosquito repellent plant is suitable for the water cutting method. Cut a section of stem or branch from the mother plant and insert it into water, thereby forming new hydroponic plant roots.

(2) Method two: Place the branches of the mosquito repellent plant into a 0.05%-0.1% potassium permanganate solution to disinfect for 10 min, then use tap water to induce new roots.

(3) Method three: Cut well-growing branches, and when inserting them into water, the water should preferably submerge 1/3 of the branch. If any leaves are submerged in the water, simply remove them; keep the aerial roots and expose them to the air. The picture shows a hydroponically grown mosquito repellent plant.

2. Care guide

(1) Light and temperature: The mosquito repellent plant is suited to a mild and refreshing environment. In winter it fears severe cold and dry wind, and in summer it fears extreme heat and dampness. The optimal growth temperature is 15-20°C. It can safely overwinter above 0°C, and above 15°C it can normally release its lemon fragrance. Mosquito Net Scented Herb [Jishan Huayao] (mosquito repellent plant) prefers shade and cannot tolerate strong light during growth, so shading treatment is needed in summer under strong light.

(2) Pest and disease control: If the mosquito repellent plant is not managed properly, diseases such as root rot or stem and leaf rot will occur, the leaves will shrivel and develop black spots, and then the whole plant will wither. The causes are excessive air humidity, excessively high temperature, poor ventilation or excessive seedling density. Fungicides can be sprayed, but they must not be sprayed frequently.