Indeed, planting marigolds in garden beds can provide some level of protection, but it is not very significant, notes the publication The Spruce. Pest expert Juan Rezkas, who has tested marigolds in many different garden setups, says: “Although marigolds do have a pest-repelling effect, their benefit is often misunderstood.”
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He states that in a small area marigolds can repel some pests, but throughout the whole garden this effect is minimal.
Why don’t marigolds “work”?
Marigolds have a strong aroma that repels pests. However, gardener Nicola Carpenter says: “Against ground pests, such as aphids or beetles, the scent of marigolds is not strong enough to keep them away from the garden.”
Rezkas also agrees that at best marigolds can slightly repel insects in very small areas, but they still cannot hold back larger pests, such as beetles or caterpillars.
How to make them more effective?
Although marigolds are not an ideal solution for repelling pests, their effectiveness can be slightly increased:
plant them more densely;
use them together with other protective measures.
Marigolds should be considered only one of the layers of protection, not the sole solution.
Gardeners emphasize: it is better to grow them for beauty rather than for complete pest protection.
When and how to plant marigolds?
Marigolds can be planted in spring when there are no more frosts and the soil is warm enough. They can also be planted until mid-summer.
Some gardeners sow seeds directly into the soil, but for faster and stronger growth it is recommended to plant seedlings.
Where do they grow best?
Marigolds grow best in sunny places and tolerate heat and drought well. They are not suitable for shade, as they bloom poorly there and the risk of powdery mildew increases.
Although they can grow in almost any soil, they feel best in moderately fertile, well-drained soil. They can be grown in garden beds, raised beds, and pots.
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