5 Reasons Why Marigold Companion Flowers are the Perfect Addition to Your Garden

Oleh Anonymous February 23, 2021 Post a Comment

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If you're looking for a flowering plant that is easy to grow, and can add a pop of color to your garden, look no further than marigolds. Not only are these plants beautiful, but they also have several benefits when it comes to companion planting. In this article, we'll explore why marigolds are the perfect companion flowers for your garden.

Why Choose Marigold Companion Flowers?

Marigolds are known for their bright orange and yellow flowers, but there's more to these flowers than just their beauty. Here are five reasons why marigolds make great companion flowers:

1. Pest Control

Marigolds are known for their ability to repel pests such as nematodes, whiteflies, and aphids. These insects are deterred by the scent of marigolds, which means they are less likely to damage the plants growing nearby. In fact, some gardeners even plant marigolds around their vegetable gardens to keep pests away.

2. Attracting Beneficial Insects

While marigolds repel harmful insects, they also attract beneficial ones. The scent of marigolds is known to attract ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverflies, all of which feed on pests like aphids and mites. This means that by planting marigolds in your garden, you can create a natural pest control system that doesn't require any harmful chemicals.

3. Soil Enrichment

Marigolds have a unique ability to enrich the soil they grow in. They produce a chemical called alpha-terthienyl, which is toxic to some soil-borne pests like root-knot nematodes. As the marigolds grow and eventually die, this chemical breaks down into the soil, creating a natural pest control barrier. Additionally, marigolds are known to have a high concentration of nutrients in their leaves and flowers, which can help improve soil fertility.

4. Companion Planting

Marigolds are often used in companion planting because they can help improve the growth and health of other plants. For example, planting marigolds near tomatoes has been shown to improve tomato yields and flavor. Similarly, planting marigolds near beans and peas can help these plants fix nitrogen in the soil, which is necessary for healthy plant growth.

5. Low Maintenance

Finally, one of the best things about marigolds is that they are incredibly easy to grow and maintain. They don't require a lot of water or fertilizer, and they can tolerate a wide range of soil types and growing conditions. This makes them a great choice for gardeners who want beautiful flowers without a lot of hassle.

How to Grow Marigold Companion Flowers

Now that you know why marigolds are such great companion flowers, let's talk about how to grow them. Here are some tips to help you get ed:

1. Choose the Right Variety

There are several different varieties of marigolds available, and each one has its own unique characteristics. If you're planting marigolds as companion flowers, look for varieties that are known for their pest-repelling properties, such as Tagetes patula 'French Vanilla' or Tagetes erecta 'Crackerjack'.

2. Plant in the Right Location

Marigolds grow best in full sun, so make sure to plant them in a location that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. They also prefer well-drained soil, so avoid planting them in areas that are prone to standing water.

3. Water and Fertilize Appropriately

Marigolds don't require a lot of water or fertilizer, but they do need some. Water your marigolds regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize them once a month with a balanced fertilizer to keep them healthy and strong.

4. Deadhead Regularly

To encourage your marigolds to produce more flowers, make sure to deadhead them regularly. This means removing the spent blooms, which will encourage the plant to put its energy into producing new flowers instead of seed pods.

FAQs About Marigold Companion Flowers

1. Can I plant marigolds in containers?

Yes! Marigolds can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant's root system. Just make sure to choose a variety that doesn't get too tall or wide, such as Tagetes patula 'Little Hero'.

2. How often should I water my marigolds?

Marigolds prefer moist soil, but they don't like to be overwatered. Water them deeply once a week, or more often if you're experiencing hot, dry weather.

3. Are marigolds safe for pets?

Marigolds are generally considered safe for pets, although they may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested. If you're concerned about your pet eating your marigolds, consider planting them in an area that is inaccessible to your furry friends.

4. How do I save seeds from my marigolds?

To save seeds from your marigolds, wait until the flowers have died back and the seed heads have formed. Cut off the seed heads and allow them to dry out completely. Once they are dry, gently crush the seed heads to release the seeds. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you're ready to plant them.

5. Can I use marigolds as cut flowers?

Yes! Marigolds make great cut flowers because they have a long vase life and a bright, cheerful appearance. Just make sure to cut the blooms early in the morning before the heat of the day has caused them to wilt.