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.
There are three main types of marigolds: French, African, and Signet.
Chrysanthemums (Semi-Perennial)– Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrum, which helps repel numerous pests including ants, roaches, ticks, lice, fleas, bedbugs, spider mites, Japanese beetles, and more. Plant chrysanthemums along the border of your garden to keep an array of pests at bay.
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.
Other than insects and bugs, marigolds have the power to also repel pests like deer and rabbits. "Marigolds may help control these bugs because they emit a strong, pungent smell that many bugs don't enjoy," Berendsen explains.
Planting marigolds too close together can result in poor air circulation, which increases the risk of fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
Bugs hate the smells associated with repellency, such as lavender, citronella, vinegar, peppermint, and geranium. These oils are considered a natural way of driving away bugs from your home without harming you, your family, and other animals.
Marigolds
There are a number of effective companion flowers for vegetables, but marigolds are one of the most famous. These plants are known to repel deer and rabbits, as well as insects like squash bugs, aphids, and bean beetles.
The compounds that give zinnias their distinctive smell are also effective at repelling mosquitoes, ticks, and other pests. In addition, you can use the oils from zinnias to make an all-natural insecticide. So the next time you're looking for a way to keep your garden safe from pests, reach for some zinnias.
African marigolds (Tagetes erecta) are good for cutting for arrangements with long, sturdy stems and good vase life. They are relatively low-maintenance summer flowers and thrive in hot, dry conditions.
Known in Mexico as 'the flower of the dead', the Mexican marigold plays a key role in the annual Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festival. The blooms are used to decorate altars to the dead, known as 'ofrendas', with their bright orange colour and strong scent thought to help guide the spirits of the dead home.
Most marigolds are annuals, which means they won't come back the next year after they complete the first one. However, there are some perennial marigolds, such as the Mexican marigold (Tagetes lemmonii), that can come back year after year in suitable climates (typically USDA Zones 8-11).
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.
Some varieties of marigolds are toxic to pets, but Garden Marigolds are a safe, non-toxic option to consider. With their distinctive golden color and strong aroma, known to keep bugs away, Garden Marigolds are the perfect flower to keep your garden growing well while keeping your dogs safe and healthy.
Tagetes patula 'Harlequin' (French Marigold)
Blooming from spring until frost, its spicy-scented flowers and aromatic foliage deter insects.
Geraniums are another favorite bug-repelling flower for the yard. Their light lemony scent keeps bugs at bay, while their low-maintenance qualities make them a popular choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
The strong scent of peppermint is overwhelming to mice. Similarly, essential oils such as eucalyptus oil, bergamot oil, clove oil, and cinnamon oil are potent in keeping mice at bay. One study noted that eucalyptus oil applied once a day was more effective as a rat repellant than once a week.
While it hasn't been scientifically proven, Irish Spring soap could be an effective DIY pest-repellent hack." The most recommended and popular way of using soap for insect repellent is by grating a bar and scattering the shavings in any area where the bugs tend to swarm.
Most gardeners set out plants in spring. However, gardeners can also sow marigold seeds directly outdoors. Plant marigold seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost is past. It's usually safe to begin planting marigolds in late April in southern Iowa and mid-May in northern portions of the state.
Marigolds can be planted as a garden border or sprinkled throughout the garden bed.
Yes, it is possible to scatter marigold seeds on top of the soil but to hold them in place, you must cover them with a thin layer of soil; 1/8 to 1/4 inch is sufficient.