Lantana Camara Seeds for Natural Mosquito Repellent

Lantana Camara, a perennial evergreen shrub, is a garden favorite that can grow up to 3-4 feet tall. This versatile plant thrives in hot and dry weather, blooming nearly continuously until frost, and serves as a natural mosquito repellent. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, white, pink, and orange, with the specific hues varying based on location within the inflorescence, age, and maturity. These colors often continue to change after pollination occurs, creating a visually captivating display.

The plant's leaves are a rich, dark green, providing a stunning contrast to the vibrant blooms. Pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, are particularly drawn to the nectar-rich lantana flowers. When the plant is cut, bruised, or even rustled by a gentle breeze, it releases a pleasant, lemony, citronella-like scent that mosquitoes tend to avoid.

To propagate lantana, the seeds should be soaked in warm water for 24 hours before planting. Small nursery pots should be filled with a growing medium, which should then be moistened with water. Two to three seeds should be planted in each pot and covered with an eighth of an inch of the growing medium. The pots should be covered to retain moisture, and the seeds should be placed in a location with bright, indirect sunlight.

Lantana seeds can be somewhat erratic in their germination, so patience is key. The seeds may take anywhere from 14 to 120 days to sprout, so it's important not to give up too quickly. Once the seedlings emerge, they can be transplanted into larger containers or directly into the garden, where they will continue to thrive and provide a vibrant, low-maintenance addition to the landscape.

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