Patchouli
Answered by: Koidu Sulev
Question from: Jen
Posted on: April 28, 2011

I have a question I am hoping you can answer. I have searched the internet with no luck. I purchased a patchouli plant a couple of years ago. It died back 3x due to temperament and my lack of knowledge as to how to properly care for it. After much love and attention it is now flourishing. My question: Unfortunately it no longer has any scent/oil on its leaves. Would you know why? And what I should do? I am desperate as this is my most favourite plant.

It is great that your Patchouli plant has recovered. Since you have had it for some time and it has survived, you must be used to its growth habits. All I can think of, when it comes to the loss of scent is that during the winter months with the indoor conditions and lack of light the leaves lose some of the oil ducts that are located beneath the leaves. Pinch out or cut back to encourage bushier growth before placing the plant outside when the weather has warmed up. The plant is able to produce more chlorophyll in the sunlight making the leaves grow stronger and more aromatic. Patchouli grows best in high humidity and warm temperature. I would also recommend to buy a new plant in case something should happen to the old one.



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