Pelargoniums are one of the easiest plants to grow. This species grows well near streams in well-drained, sandy soil in the winter-rainfall Western Cape. Pelargonium citronellum does best in full sun, in well-drained, sandy soil with water all year round, although it will withstand drought. It can be planted in the herbaceous border, the shrubbery, fynbos gardens, coastal gardens, herb and kitchen gardens and in containers. It can also be grown in light shade, where it's foliage is decorative but it will flower less.

Pelargonium citronellum can be propagated from both seeds and cuttings. Cuttings can be taken at any time of the year from a healthy vigorous plant, from softwood or herbaceous growth. Using a rooting hormone powder will speed up the rooting process, especially for the softwood cuttings. Place the cuttings in river sand in cold frames and keep them damp. The cuttings should root in 2-4 weeks. Give the rooted cuttings a 2-4 week weaning period and transplant them into a well-drained potting soil mix and place them in a sunny position. When they have formed a strong root-ball they can be planted out into the garden.

Sow seeds in late summer to early autumn. The seed should be sown in a light, well-drained potting mix. Sprinkle the seeds evenly in the seed tray and cover them with fine white sand or fine-milled pine bark. Water the seeds gently but thoroughly with a fine rose spray and place them in light shade with no direct sun. Seed germinates in 2-3 weeks.