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Plant in spring after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed, about the same time you plant tomatoes. Select a location with full sun, or even a little afternoon shade.
Mosquito plants are tolerant of a wide range of well-drained soils, however, moderately rich, moist soil will produce the best growth. However, there is good news for gardeners in drought-prone areas. Mosquito plant is relatively tolerant of summer stress.
Mosquito plant will be a cold tender annual where freezing temperatures occur. In addition, the stem can become quite woody by summer’s end. If you want to overwinter your plant, propagate a new one during the late summer months by layering. Set a pot filled with potting soil beside your big plant. With the stem still to the plant, bend it toward the pot being not to break it. Bury the stem sideways where a leaf is attached, allowing the growing tip to be uncovered. Place a rock or piece of brick over the buried stem to hold it in place. Roots with emerge from stem into the potting soil after a few weeks. At the end of the season and before frost, cut it free from the mother plant and move the new, young plant indoors for the winter.
