Imagine this—you’re sitting outside on a breezy summer evening, fairy lights glowing overhead, sipping your favorite tea… and not a single mosquito buzzing around. Sounds too good to be true? Not if you’ve discovered the magic of planting lemongrass around your patio.
I tried it myself on my cosy balcony—and the results were instant. Not only did the bug count drop, but the air smelled fresher, and my patio transformed into a calm, citrus-scented retreat. Here’s why lemongrass in pots is the most underrated patio hack for gardeners in Canada and beyond.
1. Lemongrass Repels Mosquitoes Naturally
Let’s start with its superpower: lemongrass repels mosquitoes—and does it without a single chemical.
Thanks to its high citronella oil content (yup, the same stuff used in bug sprays and candles), lemongrass offers all-natural mosquito control right from the source. The live plant releases essential oils slowly, making it more effective and longer-lasting than any store-bought solution.
📌 Pro Tip: Place lemongrass in pots around seating areas or near doorways for maximum protection.
2. It Also Repels Flies, Gnats & Other Pests
Did you know that lemongrass is known for its ability to repel insects beyond mosquitoes?
Its sharp citrus aroma interferes with pests’ ability to track scent trails. In my herb patch, lemongrass acts like a natural bouncer—keeping flies, gnats, and aphids away from my basil and mint.
Think of it as pest control that doesn’t need plugging in.
3. Lemongrass Has Antioxidants That Boost Wellness
Beyond pest control, lemongrass has antioxidants that can benefit your body too.
It’s rich in quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and other plant compounds that help reduce inflammation, support digestion, and fight free radicals. Plus, it makes a fantastic herbal tea or infusion for post-gardening relaxation.
Grow it once, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t add it to your patio earlier.
Also Read: 5 Mysterious Flowers That Will Leave You Spellbound
4. Lemongrass Tea for Congestion & Cold Relief
If you suffer from seasonal allergies or winter colds, lemongrass tea for congestion is a must-try.
I often clip a few stalks, steep them with honey and ginger, and sip slowly. It helps clear blocked sinuses, calms scratchy throats, and makes allergy season more bearable.
Having a healing herb just a few steps from your kitchen? That’s the definition of backyard wellness.
5. Lemongrass Makes Your Patio Look (& Smell) Better
Beyond its practical uses, lemongrass adds undeniable visual appeal. Its tall, slender blades sway beautifully in the wind and create a natural privacy screen when planted densely.
The aroma? Clean, citrusy, and spa-like. Every time you brush past it, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a tropical garden—even in the middle of downtown Toronto.
Whether you live in a high-rise, townhouse, or cottage, planting lemongrass around your patio instantly makes the space feel elevated.
Lemongrass Benefits At A Glance
Benefit | Why It Matters |
Repels mosquitoes | Keeps patios bite-free and bug-free |
Repels other insects | Protects nearby herbs and edible plants |
Rich in antioxidants | Strengthens immunity and reduces inflammation |
Soothes congestion & sore throat | Helps during allergy season and colds |
Improves patio aesthetics | Elegant, aromatic, and low-maintenance garden element |
Lemongrass in Pots = Stylish, Functional Design
My go-to setup? Lemongrass in pots placed around the borders of my patio. It’s the ultimate space-saver for apartment gardeners and lets you move the plants as the seasons change.
Plus, they double as design elements—think chic planters, clean lines, and natural green screens. Guests often ask what candle I’m burning—spoiler alert: it’s just the lemongrass doing its thing.
Also Read: From Dull to Dreamy—Create an Indoor Plant Room That Steals the Show
Why You Shouldn’t Wait Any Longer
If you’re tired of citronella candles that barely work or mosquito sprays that smell awful, planting lemongrass around your patio is the natural, eco-friendly fix you’ve been searching for.
It’s:
- Easy to grow 🌱
- Multi-functional 🧘
- Wellness-enhancing 💚
- Patio-perfect ✅
And whether you’re in Montreal, Seattle, or Vancouver, lemongrass thrives in full sun with well-draining soil—just remember to bring it indoors before the frost hits in colder zones.
