Lemongrass as Mosquito Repellent
Answered by: Inge Poot
Question from: Mike Jacobs
Posted on: March 18, 1999

I live in North Central Florida (just North of Gainesville). I am interested in planting lemongrass in my yard. I have heard that it is an effective natural mosquito repellent and also has a pleasant aroma. Can you tell me if what I have heard is true? Also, can you tell me if lemongrass will grow in my area?

Most plants that have a lemony scent contain citronella and are as a result mosquito repelling. Lemongrass is such a plant. However unless the plant is agitated and the oils released, it will do nothing to repel the little pests.

Lemongrass is a tropical plant and therefore cannot tolerate freezing. To have it survive the occasional frosts that hit Florida, it will have to be protected in some way if planted out of doors. Covering the clump with burlap and then plastic during the coldest part of winter might do the trick.

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