Summer’s great. Sunshine, longer days, dinners outside. But there’s one uninvited guest that always shows up: mosquitoes. And as much as citronella candles try to help, there’s a natural plant out there doing a better job — and it looks great in your garden. Meet citronella grass (Cymbopogon citratus), your fragrant new summer hero.
The mosquito menace is getting real
With rising global temperatures and increased travel, species like the Aedes albopictus — better known as the tiger mosquito — are spreading fast across Europe. These aren’t just itchy annoyances anymore; they can carry viruses like dengue, chikungunya, and West Nile. So yes, keeping them at bay isn’t just about comfort — it’s about health too.
Dr. Nick Scriven, president of the Society for Acute Medicine, recommends wearing “loose clothing that covers your limbs”, this tip is echoed by the NHS, which states: “If you’re outside at a time of day when insects are particularly active, such as sunrise or sunset, cover your skin wearing loose sleeves and trousers [and] wear shoes [not flip-flops] when outdoors.”
But if the weather is too hot, and you’d rather wear light clothing, why not consider other natural alternatives — like citronella?
Why citronella grass is a summer MVP
Citronella grass isn’t just pretty — it smells amazing, thanks to natural oils like citronellal, geraniol, and limonene. These confuse the mosquito’s scent receptors, making it harder for them to find you. In other words: they can’t bite what they can’t smell.
It’s super easy to grow. Give it five to six hours of sun a day and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil, and it’ll thrive. It can reach up to 120 cm and adds a lush, tropical vibe to your garden or balcony.
Not just citronella: meet the whole anti-mosquito squad
If citronella isn’t your thing, you’ve got plenty of natural allies. Try citronella geranium (Pelargonium citrosum) — a leafy beauty with a scent close to citronella. Or go for lemon verbena (Aloysia citriodora), which thrives in pots and sunny spots, and brings a fresh lemony fragrance to your outdoor space.
And don’t forget lavender — yes, the one from your pillow spray. Its strong scent is mosquito kryptonite. You can also count on lemon basil, mint, rosemary, and even catnip (Nepeta cataria). Fun fact: catnip contains nepetalactone, which is surprisingly effective at repelling bugs (and loved by cats, of course).
Green tips for a bug-free summer
Before you start planting like crazy, a quick heads-up: citronella grass doesn’t love the cold. If your winters dip below 10 °C, consider growing it in a pot so you can bring it inside when temperatures drop. Water it regularly but not too much, give it sunlight, and trim occasionally to keep it in shape.
For the rest of the squad, make sure they’re in sunny spots and the soil drains well. These plants aren’t high-maintenance, but a little care goes a long way — and your legs will be itch-free.
This summer, ditch the chemical sprays and go green. Whether you’re a plant lover or just want to enjoy your patio without being eaten alive, natural repellents like citronella grass offer a stylish, eco-friendly solution. Fewer bites, better air, and a garden that smells like lemony heaven. That’s a win-win.
