Citronella pasturage , also known as Cymbopogon nardus or Citronella winterianus , is often thought to be a natural and effective way to disgust mosquitoes . However , the potency of citronella pasturage in repelling mosquito is often debated among expert and mortal . Let ’s take a closer look at the belongings of citronella grass and its ability to deter mosquitoes .

Citronella grass contains a instinctive chemical substance called citronellal , which gives the works its unique citrus fruit - like scent . This scent is believed to mask the attractants that mosquitoes use to locate their prey , thus making it harder for them to find humans or animals to bite . However , it is important to observe that the concentration of citronellal in citronella grass is not typically high enough to have a meaning skanky effect on mosquitoes .

In my personal experience , I have found that planting citronella grass alone is not sufficient to keep mosquito off . The aroma may be pleasant , but it does not provide warm enough protection against these pesky insects . However , there are some step you may take to enhance the repellent properties of citronella grass .

1 . oppress the leafage : By crushing or bruising the leaves of the citronella grass , you may release more of the citronellal scent . This can potentially increase its effectuality in repelling mosquitoes . Rubbing the leaf on your skin can also provide a impermanent roadblock against mosquito bite .

2 . Plant in abundance : Instead of just having one or two citronella plants , view planting them in larger quantities . This can help create a strong scent barrier , take it hard for mosquitoes to voyage through your yard .

3 . Combine with other repellent plants : Citronella pasture can be paired with other mosquito - repellent plants to create a more comprehensive defence against mosquitoes . plant life such as lavender , basil , rosemary , and marigolds are screw for their natural mosquito - distasteful properties . By strategically planting these together with citronella sess , you may make a more effective barrier against mosquito .

4 . Use citronella vegetable oil : If you are look for a more potent shape of citronella , you may regard using citronella substantive vegetable oil . This oil is deduce from the citronella grass and has a higher concentration of citronellal . It can be used in diffusers , candles , or even applied forthwith to the skin ( after diluting with a mail carrier oil ) . However , it is important to take note that crucial crude oil should be used with caution and following proper guidelines .

5 . Implement other mosquito controller bill : While citronella smoke may have limited effectiveness on its own , combining it with other mosquito control standard can significantly improve your chances of reducing mosquito populations . These measures may admit removing stand piss where mosquitoes multiply , using mosquito cyberspace or cover , wear protective clothing , and using mosquito repellant containing DEET or picaridin .

While citronella pot contains citronellal , a instinctive chemical substance that can repel mosquitoes , its effectuality as a standalone mosquito repellant is often limited . However , by implementing additional strategies such as squeeze the leaves , planting in abundance , mix with other yucky plants , using citronella oil , and implementing other mosquito ascendence measures , you may enhance the mosquito - repellent property of citronella grass .

Caroline Bates