Marigold Pest Control: Types of Pests Marigolds Can Repel

Marigold Pest Control is the most organic way to keep the plants safe in your garden. Here are the best ones to grow for the job!

As gardeners, we often face the challenge of keeping our beloved plants safe from pests, and marigolds offer an eco-friendly, visually stunning solution. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore Marigold Pest Control and the best types!

Learn How to Grow Marigold from Cuttings here

Marigold Pest Control

Marigolds contain chemical compounds like alpha-terthienyl and pyrethrum, renowned for their insect-repelling properties. These compounds disrupt the life cycles of many insects, making marigolds an excellent natural pest deterrent.

The aroma of marigolds can deter certain pests from invading your garden. Additionally, their roots release toxic chemicals that are particularly effective against nematodes and other soil-dwelling pests, providing below-ground protection.

What Colors Do Marigolds Come In? Look here

Types of Pests Marigolds Can Repel

1. Cabbage Moths

Marigolds discourage cabbage moths from laying eggs on cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower.

Planting Tip: For maximum effectiveness, intersperse marigolds among these vegetables.

2. Mosquitoes

The fragrance of marigolds acts as a mild mosquito repellent.

Planting Tip: Position potted marigolds near entrances and seating areas for best results.

3. Mexican Bean Beetles

Marigolds act as trap crops, diverting beetles away from bean plants.

Planting Tip: Plant marigolds near your bean crops to draw beetles away.

4. Squash Bugs

Marigolds can reduce squash bug numbers when used as a border around squash plants.

Planting Tip: Create a border of marigolds around your squash plants.

5. Nematodes

These flowers release chemicals toxic to root-knot nematodes, keeping them at bay.

Planting Tip: Place marigolds in areas of your garden prone to nematode infestations.

6. Aphids

Marigolds deter aphids, which feed on plant sap and can transmit diseases.

Planting Tip: Use marigolds as a protective border around vulnerable plants.

7. Whiteflies

Marigolds effectively repel whiteflies, common nuisances for tomatoes and cabbages.

Planting Tip: Incorporate marigolds near these susceptible crops.

8. Flea Beetles

The flowers help control flea beetles, especially in potato crops.

Planting Tip: Interplant marigolds among potato plants for maximum impact.

9. Tomato Hornworms

While not highly effective, marigolds can somewhat reduce tomato hornworm populations.

Planting Tip: Employ marigolds in companion planting setups with tomato plants.

Check out Flowers That Look Like Marigolds here

Best Types of Marigolds for the Job!

1. African Marigolds (Tagetes erecta)

• Pest Repelled: Nematodes
• Why They’re Great: These marigolds are like the bouncers of your garden party, showing nematodes the door. Their robust root system releases a substance that’s the nematode’s worst nightmare.

2. French Marigolds (Tagetes patula)

• Pests Repelled: Nematodes, aphids, whiteflies
• Why They’re Great: These are the multitaskers of the Marigold family. They repel nematodes and give aphids and whiteflies a hard time.

3. Signet Marigolds (Tagetes tenuifolia)

• Pests Repelled: Aphids
• Why They’re Great: With their delicate, lacy foliage and smaller blooms, they’re the subtle guardians against aphids.

4. Mexican Marigolds (Tagetes minuta)

• Pests Repelled: Wild rabbits, Deer
• Why They’re Great: These marigolds act like the garden’s security system against larger intruders like rabbits and deer.

5. Triploid Marigolds

• Pests Repelled: Nematodes, some beetles
• Why They’re Great: A hybrid between French and African marigolds, these are the superheroes of the marigold family, combining the best of both worlds.

Here are some of the best Types of Marigolds you can grow!