Mosquito Repellent Grass Hardy to Zone 4?

Question

I’m looking for a very hardy tall mosquito repellant grass that enjoys dry sunny areas in summer and can come back after harsh Minnesotan winters (zone 4). Is there such a thing? A variety of lemongrass, perhaps? I’ve been searching the internet and can’t find anything beyond catnip and rosemary that might both survive our winters and repel mosquitoes.

Thanks.

PS. The mister hates bees and I want to put these on the south side of the patio, which is why I want a grass as opposed to a bee balm or other flowering plant.

Answer 1

Lemon grass is your best bet, but it won’t be winter hardy in your zone. You can put it in containers and overwinter indoors. If you plant it in the ground, just dig and divide about a month before first average frost. Cut back foliage to 6-8” at first frost. Relocate to protected area. Bring inside to a minimum night temperature of 38-40*F. after lows of 28-30*F. twice. Give it as much sun through a window as possible. A greenhouse would be better if possible.

Dry the cut foliage for tea and culinary use.