Do Marigold Deter Pests? Find out the detailed answer in this informative post and safeguard your garden from this problem.
Marigolds are not only loved for their vibrant blooms, but they are also loved for their ability to repel a number of garden pests. Continue to read this article and find what marigold varieties can deter pests in this detailed guide.
Read: Companion Plants for Pest Control
Marigold for Pest Control
Marigolds are the best pest-repellent plant as they contain chemical components such as Pyrethrum and alpha-terthienyl. The scent of marigolds can repel many pests from destroying your garden. The roots of this plant emit toxic chemicals that effectively deter nematodes and soil-borne pests.
Read: Tips to Grow Marigold Plants from Cuttings
Marigold Varieties that Repel Pests
French Marigolds (Tagetes patula)
This variety can deter aphids, nematodes, and whiteflies.
African Marigolds (Tagetes erecta)
African marigolds discharge a substance that keeps the nematodes away from your garden.
Signet Marigolds (Tagetes tenuifolia)
Small flowers and lacy leaves of this variety can guard your plants from aphids.
Triploid Marigolds
This hybrid of French and African marigolds can protect your plants from the attack of nematodes and some beetles.
Mexican Marigolds (Tagetes minuta)
Mexican Marigolds can effectively shield your garden from deer and wild rabbits.
Read: Marigold Benefits and Uses in the Garden
Pests Marigolds Can Deter
1. Mosquitoes
The aroma of marigolds can repel mosquitoes by serving as a gentle mosquito repellent. For best results, keep it close to the entrance and seating areas.
2. Cabbage Moths
Marigolds can deter cabbage moths; they prevent these pests by hatching eggs on cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli. You can grow marigolds with these vegetables for maximum benefits.
3. Whiteflies
Whiteflies can create a problem for cabbages and tomatoes; you can warm them off by planting marigolds around the vulnerable plants.
4. Nematodes
Growing marigolds in the garden can keep away root-knot nematodes, as they release a chemical that repels these nasty pests.
5. Squash Bugs
Marigolds can effectively divert squash bugs when planted as a border plant near squash plants. Grow marigolds as a border plant and have a healthy squash harvest.
6. Mexican Bean Beetles
Tagetes act as a trap crop and keep beetles away from bean plants. Just plant marigolds as a companion along with beans for best results.
7. Aphids
Aphids suck plant sap and spread diseases; you can deter them by planting marigolds near susceptible plants.
8. Flea Beetles
The pretty blooms can prevent flea beetles, primarily in potato crops.
9. Tomato Hornworms
Marigolds can keep away tomato hornworms to some extent, but they are not extremely effective.