Book 29, Question 69
Do marigolds really protect vegetables?
Gardeners have long planted marigolds among vegetables.
Some kinds release chemicals from their roots that discourage tiny soil worms called nematodes, and their strong scent might confuse some pests. But marigolds don't work against every pest, and results vary. They also brighten the garden and attract pollinators. Testing ideas yourself is the best way to know.
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Quick answers
Do marigolds really protect vegetables?
Whether or not marigolds repel pest insects and whether they control for nematodes is not clear from science-based studies, but many gardeners now are firm believers in the practice of planting marigolds as companion plants.
Source: University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources
More fun facts
- Marigold can be grown ahead of time as a cover crop to suppress nematodes before planting a susceptible crop such as a vegetable crop.
- Yes, but in order for marigold to successfully suppress plant-parasitic nematodes, marigolds should be planted at least two months before the susceptible crop is planted.
- Intercropping marigold with other crops to reduce plant-parasitic nematodes does not appear to be effective.
- Coleus will not be protected by marigold even though marigold is planted in close proximity.
Sources: University of Florida