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It is interesting how a plant native to the Americas has ended up with other areas for names. So much for common names representing their origin, although I suppose it does show their breeding.
I have grown marigolds in my veggie gardens ever since I started gardening, sometime back in high school, maybe sooner. They can be very colorful, I like the fragrance, and they are supposed to help with nematodes and other garden pests. I think they are sometimes reported to deter bunnies, as well, but not much seems to bother the ones I have. Do you know which types may be best for a combination of color and pest control? Some varieties are marketed specifically for nematodes, but I would think many types would work.
I think many of these work well for dyes and cut flowers, as well.
Hi Lancemg, From what I've read, there's no real hard data on the marigold's ability to repel pests, although as you say, many gardeners report that French marigolds in particular are helpful in dealing with root knot nematodes. Here are links to a couple of articles you might find helpful:
Thank you for the references. I do a lot of interplanting, mixed plantings, wide row gardening, and other methods of attempting to confuse the weeds and what wants to eat my hard work. It sounds like marigolds, like most other hopeful methods, may help some, but not as much as hoped for. However, mixed in with the rest of my stuff, it seems like a good idea, as every little bit can help the overall goal, and potentially add up to reasonable control.
I am trying a new variety of marigold specifically that says for nematode control this year, from Garden's Alive - Organic Nematocidal Marigold. With a name like that, and their $25 coupon, I figure it is worth a try.
