Enjoy A Fly-Free Yard When You Add This Fragrant Flower Cultivar To Your Garden

If flies keep ruining your time outside, you may be looking for a more natural way to make your yard feel more comfortable. While no flower can guarantee a completely fly-free yard, Pelargonium 'citrosum', commonly known as citronella geranium, can be a helpful plant to add near patios, porches, doorways, or outdoor seating areas to keep flies away. These fragrant flowers are known for their aromatic foliage and strong scent when their leaves are brushed or gently crushed.

The key is not simply planting citronella geraniums and expecting flies to disappear. The benefit comes from the plant's scented oils, which are found in the leaves and blooms. Research on Pelargonium citrosum oil suggests it has potential as a repellent against house flies and blow flies, which is why this plant is worth considering if flies are a problem in your outdoor space. For the best chance of getting that effect in the garden, place citronella geraniums where people and pets may disturb the foliage, releasing more of the plant's fragrance into the air.

Citronella geraniums generally grow best in bright light and well-draining soil. They can be planted in garden beds in warm climates, but many gardeners grow them in containers so they can move the plants where needed. Pots also make it easier to bring scented geraniums indoors before frost, since they are tender perennials and will not survive cold winters outdoors.

To get the most from citronella geraniums, grow them where their fragrance can be released through touching. Place pots near patios, outdoor dining areas, or doors where people are likely to brush against the leaves. You can also gently rub or pinch a leaf before sitting outside to release more of the plant's scent into the air. Citronella geraniums would be a wonderful addition when creating a sensory garden, where touching is encouraged.

The research behind this idea is promising, but it is also easy to overstate. The study focused on Pelargonium citrosum oil, not on whether a few scented geraniums planted in the yard can keep flies away on their own. Researchers found that the oil showed potential for repelling house flies and blow flies, suggesting the plant's aromatic compounds may be useful. In the garden, these flowers are best treated as one helpful layer of fly control rather than a complete solution. For better results, pair with simple habits like keeping trash covered, cleaning up pet waste, managing compost carefully, and removing anything that attracts flies in the first place. 

Group citronella geraniums with other patio plants that also repel pests. You'll be discouraging flies and other unwanted insects while creating a comfortable and aromatic outdoor space to enjoy.