FAQs
It is regarded that French marigolds have the strongest scent, making them ideal for repelling a large variety of insects. Vineta Jackson adds that it is also French marigolds that are best at repelling nematodes too, however, the other types also do have beneficial uses in the garden.
How to use marigolds for pest control? ›
To help with pests of the insect variety, plant Marigold near plants preyed upon by such pests – tomatoes, cabbage, squash, strawberries, roses, etc. Culturally, Marigolds are associated with celebrating the souls of those who have passed.
What animals stay away from marigolds? ›
Foliage has a distinct odor that deer and rabbits tend to avoid, making marigolds great companion plants to other plants in order to deter pests. There are three main types of marigolds: French, African, and Signet.
What not to plant with marigolds? ›
Marigold companion planting enhances the growth of basil, broccoli, cabbage, cucumbers, eggplant, gourds, kale, potatoes, squash and tomatoes. Marigold also makes a good companion plant to melons because it deters beetles. Beans and cabbage are listed as bad companion plants for marigolds.
Are marigolds toxic to dogs? ›
Ease your mind 🐕—marigolds aren't toxic to dogs, but here's how to handle the small risks. Marigolds can cause mild discomfort in dogs, like gastrointestinal upset. 🐶 Symptoms to watch: vomiting, diarrhea, and skin irritation. Prevent ingestion with fencing or elevating plants; seek vet if symptoms persist.
How do I keep bugs from eating my marigolds? ›
Alternatively, adding eggshells and nut hulls to the mulch around your marigolds may help keep these soft-bellied pests at bay.
What killed my marigolds? ›
Among the most common marigold diseases are blights, rots, and mildews. Usually, these types of diseases show up when conditions are wet and warm, and fungal spores are rampant. In most cases, simply discontinuing overhead watering can stop the formation and spread of spores.
Where should I put marigolds in my garden? ›
Plant them around the edges of beds
They also flower for a long period - especially if you deadhead marigolds to keep them blooming - and will bring those beneficial insects into your garden throughout the season.
Should I plant marigolds with my tomatoes? ›
Marigolds and tomatoes make great companion plants for many reasons. The two plants have almost identical growing requirements: full sun, heat tolerant, and do best in well-draining rich soil. But these are just a few reasons these two go great together.
Do marigolds keep ants away? ›
Marigolds deter ants in two ways. The pungent fragrance of the flowers and foliage is too intense for them, and marigolds also host a number of other insects and invertebrates that eat ants. Marigolds are annual flowers and a favorite all-around companion plant for many gardeners.
The Orange Flame Marigold is aptly named, with blooms resembling that of a double-layered flame of red and orange. It comes from the French variety of marigolds, which means it's particularly effective against repelling nasty pests away from your flower beds and garden.
Do squirrels hate marigolds? ›
Marigolds: Marigolds have a strong, pungent odor that is unpleasant to many pests, including squirrels. Planting marigolds near your plants and garden can help deter these garden pests from feeding on them. Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums are sometimes touted as squirrel-repelling flowers.
What is eating my marigolds at night? ›
Snails and slugs eat irregular holes in marigold leaves and chew new flower buds before they open. They feed at night and affect the marigold plants at all stages of development.
Are French or African marigolds better? ›
The French marigolds have a longer blooming season than the African marigolds. They generally bloom from spring until frost. The French marigolds also hold up better in rainy weather. French marigolds are ideal for edging flower beds and in mass plantings.
Which flower is excellent at repelling insects? ›
Chrysanthemums. These flowers contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide that is used in many bug repellants sold in stores. The flowers are great for repelling ants, beetles, roaches, mosquitos, and other pests. Plant them in areas like entryways and patio areas to keep bugs away.
How to keep animals from eating marigolds? ›
Plant bad-tasting flowers
Rabbits don't like the taste of marigolds and deer don't like the smell. You can use this to your advantage by planting marigolds around the perimeter of your vegetable and fruit garden.
What are the best marigolds for the garden? ›
French marigolds excel year-round while the large-flowered African types are best for spring. The marigold will grow one to two feet tall, and needs full sun. The brightly colored flowers can be single or double. Try pairing them with plants that have dark-colored foliage to make the flowers really pop.
