Nothing ruins a relaxing evening outdoors faster than a swarm of hungry mosquitoes.
While bug sprays and candles can offer temporary relief, growing your own mosquito repellent grass is a natural, long-term solution that not only beautifies your yard but also helps deter unwanted pests.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to grow the best mosquito repellent grass, what types of grass and plants work best, how to care for them, and how to use them effectively to keep mosquitoes away—naturally and sustainably.
Why Grow Mosquito Repellent Grass?
Mosquito-repelling plants and grasses contain natural essential oils that emit scents mosquitoes dislike.
These oils—often found in plants like citronella, lemongrass, and vetiver—can reduce mosquito populations around your home, patio, or garden area.
Growing mosquito repellent grass:
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Reduces reliance on chemical repellents
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Acts as a natural, decorative barrier
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Is safe for kids, pets, and pollinators
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Can be harvested for making DIY sprays or sachets
Best Mosquito Repellent Grasses to Grow
When it comes to choosing the best grass for mosquito control, a few species stand out for their potent aroma, essential oil content, and ease of growth.
1. Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon nardus)
Citronella is the most well-known mosquito-repelling plant. It’s a clumping grass native to tropical Asia and commonly used in candles, sprays, and oils.
Key benefits:
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High in citronellal and geraniol, compounds mosquitoes hate
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Fast-growing and low maintenance
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Beautiful ornamental grass, perfect for borders and containers
Growing Tips:
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Zones: 9–11 (grow as an annual or potted plant in colder zones)
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Sun: Full sun (at least 6 hours per day)
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Soil: Well-drained, loamy soil
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Water: Moderate; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
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Maintenance: Cut back in fall and divide clumps every 2–3 years
Note: Be sure to choose citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus) or Cymbopogon winterianus, not citronella-scented geraniums, which have similar names but are different species.
2. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Lemongrass is closely related to citronella and offers the same mosquito-repelling properties with the added benefit of being edible and aromatic. It’s widely used in cooking and herbal teas.
Key benefits:
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High in citronellal and limonene
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Dual-purpose: repels bugs and flavors dishes
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Can be harvested for DIY insect sprays
Growing Tips:
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Zones: 9–11 (potted indoors in cooler climates)
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Sun: Full sun
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Soil: Sandy, well-drained soil
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Water: Keep consistently moist but not soggy
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Harvesting: Cut outer stalks near the base as needed
3. Vetiver Grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides)
Vetiver is a tall, fragrant grass known for its strong root system and earthy aroma. It’s not only a natural mosquito repellent but also excellent for erosion control and soil stabilization.
Key benefits:
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Contains vetiverol, which deters mosquitoes
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Grows well in poor or dry soils
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Attractive ornamental grass for landscaping
Growing Tips:
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Zones: 8–11
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Sun: Full sun to partial shade
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Soil: Adaptable; thrives in clay and sandy soils
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Water: Drought-tolerant once established
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Maintenance: Cut back annually to promote new growth
How to Plant and Grow Mosquito Repellent Grasses
Whether you’re growing in pots, borders, or garden beds, mosquito-repelling grasses are relatively easy to care for.
Here’s how to get started.
1. Choose the Right Location
Select a sunny location where your grasses will receive 6–8 hours of sunlight per day. These grasses thrive in warm, bright conditions and can grow quickly with the right care.
2. Prepare the Soil
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Use well-draining soil enriched with compost or organic matter.
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For pots, use a quality potting mix combined with perlite or sand to improve drainage.
3. Planting
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Space clumping grasses like citronella and lemongrass 24–36 inches apart to give them room to expand.
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If planting in pots, choose containers with drainage holes and a minimum size of 12 inches wide and deep.
4. Watering
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Water regularly during the first few weeks after planting.
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Once established, allow the soil to dry slightly between watering, especially for drought-tolerant types like vetiver.
5. Fertilizing
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Use a balanced, organic fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
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Too much nitrogen can cause leggy growth with less essential oil concentration—moderation is key.
Tips for Using Mosquito Repellent Grass Effectively
Growing mosquito-repelling grasses is just one step. To maximize their benefits, try these strategies:
1. Create a Natural Barrier
Plant citronella or lemongrass in a border around your patio, deck, or outdoor sitting area. This creates a protective barrier that naturally deters mosquitoes.
2. Use in Pots and Move Around
Grow grasses in containers and move them around as needed. Place them near doorways, windows, and seating areas during mosquito season.
3. Harvest and Crush Leaves
To release the insect-repelling oils, crush the leaves of citronella or lemongrass and rub them on your skin (test on a small patch first) or crush them near outdoor tables or grills.
4. Make DIY Insect Spray
Harvest leaves and boil them in water with a bit of witch hazel or alcohol to create your own natural mosquito spray. Strain and store in a spray bottle in the fridge.
Simple Recipe:
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2 cups water
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2 handfuls of lemongrass or citronella leaves
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Simmer for 10 minutes, cool, strain, and mix with ½ cup witch hazel
Other Plants to Pair with Mosquito Repellent Grass
Enhance your pest-control efforts by planting mosquito-repelling herbs and flowers alongside your grass. These include:
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Basil – especially lemon basil
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Lavender – repels mosquitoes and adds fragrance
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Rosemary – strong aroma deters insects
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Mint – pungent smell repels pests (contain its spread)
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Marigolds – contains pyrethrum, a natural insecticide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I grow citronella grass indoors?
Yes, but it needs a lot of light. Use a grow light or place it in a sunny south-facing window. Rotate the pot weekly for even growth.
Do I need to harvest the grass to repel mosquitoes?
While the live plant offers some repellent effects, crushing the leaves or using the extracted oil is much more effective for repelling mosquitoes.
Is mosquito repellent grass safe for pets?
Yes, citronella and lemongrass are generally safe for pets when grown outdoors. However, ingestion in large amounts can cause mild digestive upset, so monitor curious animals.
If you’re looking for a natural, attractive, and effective way to reduce mosquitoes around your home, planting mosquito repellent grasses like citronella, lemongrass, and vetiver is a smart and sustainable choice.
