I was surprised to learn that lemongrass. Yes, that fragrant stalk in your Thai curry might be one of the most useful plants for your outdoor space.
While most of us focus on pretty flowers and nice furniture, this tropical plant quietly transforms patios into mosquito-free, aromatic spaces.
Here’s what makes lemongrass worth considering for your outdoor area.
Nature’s Bug Repellent: A Better Way to Handle Mosquitoes
You can skip the expensive bug zappers and chemical sprays. Lemongrass acts as a natural barrier against mosquitoes and other pests. The plant contains citral and citronellal compounds that mosquitoes really don’t like.
• Naturally repels mosquitoes, flies, ticks, and other biting pests
• Reduces your need for chemical sprays and candles
• Helps protect against mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile and Zika
Here’s a simple trick: Crush a few leaves between your palms and rub them on exposed skin for a quick DIY bug repellent. It smells nice and actually works.
Your Living Privacy Screen
Lemongrass grows into a tall, fountain-like privacy screen that can reach 4-6 feet tall. Think of it as nature’s room divider, but one that smells good and keeps bugs away.
This plant grows fast. Within just 3-4 months in warm climates, you’ll have a thick barrier that turns an exposed patio into a more private space.
• Creates natural privacy without expensive fencing
• Blocks unwanted views and reduces wind
• Adds a tropical look with its height and movement
From Garden to Kitchen: Fresh Ingredients at Your Door
Having lemongrass around your patio means you have a fresh ingredient just steps away. Those bright green stalks are packed with citrusy flavor that can improve simple dishes.
The best part of outdoor cooking isn’t fancy equipment. It’s having fresh ingredients within reach. You can impress dinner guests by snipping fresh lemongrass for cocktails or soup.
• Adds fresh citrus notes to soups, marinades, and stir-fries
• Makes calming tea for relaxing evenings
• Works great in infused oils, syrups, and cocktails
A Natural Air Freshener for Your Patio
The difference between new and experienced plant owners is knowing which plants do more for you. Lemongrass doesn’t just sit there. It fills your patio with an uplifting, lemony scent.
This natural scent works all the time, releasing gentle citrus notes that can help you feel more relaxed. It’s a nice bonus while you enjoy your morning coffee outside.
Studies suggest that citrus scents can improve mood and mental clarity, making your patio not just a place to sit, but a place to actually unwind.
Easy to Grow: The Low-Maintenance Option
Many people choose patio plants that need constant attention. Lemongrass is the opposite. Once it’s established, this tough plant handles drought well, resists most pests and diseases, and keeps looking good with little effort.
• Drought-tolerant after establishment (perfect if you want to save water)
• Resistant to most garden pests and diseases
• Thrives in full sun and well-draining soil
• Grows well in containers or in the ground
The Health Benefits in Your Backyard
Lemongrass isn’t just decorative. It’s been used for centuries in traditional medicine across Asia.
Rich in antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds, lemongrass offers real health benefits that you can access by brewing tea from your patio plants.
• Helps reduce inflammation and fever
• Supports healthy digestion
• Promotes relaxation and better sleep
• May help with respiratory issues and sore throats
Worth noting: A study in the Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology & Research found that lemongrass extract exhibited antimicrobial activity against several bacterial strains, including some resistant to antibiotics.
How to Get Started with Lemongrass
Ready to try lemongrass on your patio? Here’s how to plant it:
- Choose the right spot: Full sun (at least 6 hours daily) and well-draining soil
- Give them space: Plant 18-24 inches apart for a full border
- Prep the soil: Mix in compost for better growth
- Water regularly: Keep soil moist until established, then water less often
- Harvest when ready: Cut stalks near the base once they reach ½ inch thick
- Keep it tidy: Trim back occasionally to maintain shape
For cold-climate gardeners: Lemongrass grows well in containers that can be moved indoors during winter. Just place it in a sunny window, and it’ll keep growing year-round.
Plants That Pair Well with Lemongrass
Want to create a more complete patio garden? Pair your lemongrass with these plants:
• Lavender adds more pest-repelling power and a nice scent
• Basil creates a culinary garden right outside your door
• Marigolds add bright color while enhancing pest protection
• Rosemary, another tough, aromatic plant that attracts pollinators
This combination creates a layered patio border that’s both pretty and functional.
This easy-growing tropical plant can transform your outdoor space into a more comfortable retreat without the chemicals or constant maintenance of other options. Your patio could use a few lemongrass plants.