Mosquito-Repelling Plant Myths

There is a common myth that planting lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) in the garden will prevent mosquitoes. Lemongrass is a stunning specimen plant and a fantastic culinary herb, but it will not repel those nasty pests. Although it is true that the foliage contains an essential oil which mosquitoes do not like, a person would have to cut open or bruise the foliage to release the oil and apply the oil all over the skin. Lemongrass has very sharp foliage and applying an oil directly on the skin could cause a reaction. Plus, you would have to cover every exposed inch, including the face, as mosquitoes can find an unprotected spot the size of a dime.

So don’t be fooled into purchasing lemongrass in order to have a pleasant, insect-free party on the patio. Likewise, don’t think that “mosquito” plant, a type of scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens citrosa), peppermint (Mentha x piperita), lavender (Lavandula spp.), catnip (Nepeta cataria), citronella lemon balm (Melissa officinalis citronella), and lemon eucalyptus (Corymbia citriodora) will do the trick. All of these may have an essential oil in the foliage that mosquitoes find repellant, but the leaves would have to be crushed, wiped all over the body, and potentially cause a skin reaction.

It is best to spray with DEET or other EPA-approved repellants that have been formulated for use on bare skin. Another alternative is to wear permethrin treated clothing (but even then you would still have to apply something on body parts not covered by clothing). Here are more tips to control mosquitoes on your property.