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Marigold

Tagetes patula

Flower

French marigolds are possibly the single most valuable companion plant in the entire vegetable garden. Their root secretions suppress soil nematodes, their scent deters aphids and whiteflies, and their flowers act as a trap crop drawing pest insects away from valuable crops.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Low

Soil

Well-draining loam; pH 5.8–7.0; thrives in average soil

Spacing

8–12 inches

Days to Maturity

45–55 days from transplant to full flower

Growing Zones

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

Thrives in USDA Zones 3–11

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Keep Away From

No known antagonists

When to Plant

  • Start Indoors

    6–8 weeks before last frost

  • Direct Sow

    After last frost

  • Harvest

    Deadhead spent flowers to maintain continuous bloom through season

Organic Growing Tips

  • Interplant French marigolds (Tagetes patula) throughout vegetable beds — root secretions suppress nematodes for up to 3 months.

  • Deadhead regularly to maintain continuous flowering and pest-deterrent effect all season.

  • Dense plantings around tomatoes and peppers significantly reduce whitefly populations.

  • Allow some plants to set seed — they self-sow freely and will appear as natural companions the following year.

Common Pests

  • Slugs
  • Spider Mites
  • Aphids

All pest management in Garden uses safe, organic, non-toxic methods only. No synthetic pesticides, ever.