Pest management experts at North Carolina University's Extension Service claim that citronella grass is one of a number of plants that are "very effective keeping away mosquitoes." But, wait. Before you run out and purchase a truckload of the stuff, Richard Jauron, horticulturist with Iowa State University Extension Service says that claim is "hogwash." He says that in order for these plants to release their natural citronella, which is used in pest repellents, the leaves must be crushed, as they won't repel anything sitting in a plot of dirt or a pot. Whichever claim you choose to believe, plant citronella grass for an attractive ornamental grass, if nothing else. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Choose an area in full sun in which to plant the citronella. Since the plant is hardy to the warmer zones - 10 and 11 on the U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone Map - and requires copious amounts of water, site it near a faucet if you don't have inground sprinklers.
2. Amend the soil with 2 inches of aged compost, blended into the top 6 inches of soil.
3. Dig a hole that's the same depth as the nursery pot in which the citronella grass is growing and three times its diameter. A wide hole makes it easier for the roots to penetrate the soil.
4. Remove the citronella grass from the pot and gently shake the roots to remove loose potting soil. Place the roots into the hole, fill it and press down around the base of the plant.
5. Water the citronella grass slowly so that the soil is moist to a depth of 10 inches.
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