Patchouli plant.
Patchouli is an erect herb that's a member of the mint family. It is native to the tropical regions of eastern Asia and western Africa. The essential oil of the patchouli plant is often used in aromatherapy and to make perfumes. The plant forms small, white flowers that produce a strong, heady aroma. Patchouli requires extra care to grow in temperate regions, because of its hot, humid native climate. Does this Spark an idea?
Planting and Environment
Plant patchouli in a shady location that receives indirect sunlight during most of the day. Use a fertile, loamy soil with high drainage. Add organic compost to the soil if necessary. Ensure the soil has a pH level between 5.5 and 6.2 for best results. Check the soil's pH level with an inexpensive test from a lawn and garden store.
Dig a hole in the soil, just large enough to completely hold the patchouli cutting without crowding it. Gently pack the soil around the cutting, and water thoroughly to compact the soil. Plant other patchouli plants at least 20 inches away from each other to allow plenty of room for growth.
Patchouli is also suitable for growing in containers, which makes it easier to bring indoors during winter. Keep the plants at a temperature of 75 to 85 degrees F at all times. Bring the plant indoors any time the outside temperature drops below 75 degrees F, or grow it indoors all year. A heat lamp may be used to raise indoor temperatures, if necessary. Make sure the plant receives indirect sunlight for at least eight hours per day, indoors or outdoors.
Watering and Fertilizing
Keep the soil moist at all times. Never allow the soil surrounding the patchouli to dry out. Check every day, and water when necessary. Use the knuckle test to determine whether the plant needs water or not. Insert your finger into the soil to the first knuckle. Water if the soil is dry to that point, but if the soil is moist, wait another day. Reduce watering to once every three or four days during winter. Mist the foliage daily if plants are grown indoors, or in a dry climate. Patchouli grown in containers requires even more water, and daily watering may be necessary during the summer months.
Fertilize patchouli once a month using a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's directions for proper application. Reduce the fertilizing to once every two months if the tips of the plant's foliage begin to whither. Keep a thin layer of mulch on the soil directly around the patchouli to conserve moisture and protect from weeds.
Pests and Diseases
Patchouli plants are highly susceptible to caterpillars and leaf blight. Caterpillars can be controlled by various pesticides which can be purchased at lawn and garden centers. However, these pesticides should not be used if you plan to harvest and use the patchouli. Remove the caterpillars manually with a water hose or a broom, if necessary.
Leaf blight is caused by the fungi cercospora, and can be identified by numerous dark spots covering the leaves of the plant. Remove all afflicted leaves immediately and burn them in a remote location to prevent the spores from spreading.
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