Will Planting Citronella Grass In Your Garden Keep Mosquitoes Far Away?

Those who enjoy spending time in their yard and garden tend to spend a good deal of that time fighting off various insects and bugs, including mosquitoes. While there are a number of chemical compounds available to rid your yard and garden of these pests, more and more people are searching for natural, non-chemical ways to have mosquito-free outdoor spaces. That quest has led to many creative solutions of varying effectiveness, such as burning coffee grounds to repulse pests.

There is, however, a natural substance that has long been an ingredient in mosquito and bug repellents. Citronella oil lamps, citronella candles, and citronella sprays are mainstays for many outdoor enthusiasts, especially during the summer months. Some gardeners have even planted citronella grass in an effort to combat mosquitoes in their backyard. So, will planting citronella grass in your garden keep mosquitoes away? Sadly, no. Although gardeners have long believed in the mosquito-repelling powers of citronella grass, scientific studies, such as this 2017 paper published in the Journal of Insect Science, have actually proven this to be untrue. Thankfully, there are a number of other soothing scents that repel mosquitoes like magic. 

While the oil derived from citronella has been shown to have some repellent qualities, the grass itself does little if anything to deter mosquitoes. Citronella grass is, however, a plant that repels pests. So, just because it won't solve your mosquito problem, planting it in your garden can still have some benefits. Chief among those perks is the potential of these plants to work 24/7 to help keep your backyard pest-free in a natural, chemical-free way, driving away a number of pesky bugs — just not mosquitoes.

If you do decide to plant citronella grass in your garden to help tackle your pest problem, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you have to know the difference between true citronella and what is often sold as a citronella plant. Real citronella, the plant from which the essential oil is derived, is a tall grass. What is often sold as citronella plants are leafy, citronella-scented geraniums. Additionally, citronella grass and lemongrass, while similar, are not the same, although they are often referred to interchangeably.

Planting citronella grass in areas around your house and yard can indeed keep various insects at bay. The grass in its plant form is most effective against various flies. That said, it also matters where the plants are located — proper placement is key. For maximum effectiveness, it is best to plant citronella grass near the edges of porches and patios, around the perimeter of the yard, and in pots near doors.

Citronella grass can be planted by seed or by obtaining live citronella plants. This perennial grass can grow up to six feet high and four feet wide, you don't need many of them and leave plenty of room between them. As a bonus, in addition to helping banish bugs, citronella has a somewhat lemony scent (hence the confusion with lemongrass) which can add to the ambiance of evenings spent in your backyard.