How to Pair Marigold Companion Plants — Meadowlark Journal (2024)

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Marigolds are hardy flowers that are not only beautiful but also play a crucial role in the health and productivity of your garden through companion planting.

For generations, gardeners have intermingled marigolds with vegetables, herbs, and other flowers, drawing on their natural ability to repel pests and attract beneficial insects.

Beyond their protective aura, marigolds bring a touch of simplicity to gardening, thriving in a range of conditions with minimal care.

In this guide, we'll delve into the art and science of marigold companion planting.

From the vegetable beds to the flower borders and herb patches, we'll explore how these sunny plants can be your garden's best ally.

Join me as we unpack the benefits of marigold companion planting, provide practical tips for integrating these blooms into your garden, and answer the most frequently asked questions.

Prepare to be inspired as we bring the humble marigold into the spotlight, revealing its full potential as a companion plant.

To learn more about growing flowers as companion plants, check out my guides:

Companion Planting Yarrow: Attracting Beneficial Insects

Utilizing Nasturtium Companion Plants for Natural Pest Control

Check out my guide: How to Grow Marigolds from Seed.

The Benefits of Marigold Companion Planting

A Natural Pest Deterrent

Marigolds are heralded for their natural pest control abilities.

They emit a fragrance that many pests find disagreeable, thus acting as a deterrent.

The roots of marigolds release substances that are toxic to soil-borne nematodes, microscopic worms that attack the roots of plants.

This property is especially pronounced in French marigolds (Tagetes patula), which when planted densely, can clear an area of nematodes for several years.

Attracting Beneficial Insects

In the push and pull of the garden ecosystem, marigolds are a potent magnet for beneficial insects.

They attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are vital for the pollination of many crops.

Beyond pollinators, marigolds also attract predatory insects, including ladybugs and parasitic wasps, which help control populations of harmful insects like aphids, thrips, and whiteflies.

The inclusion of marigolds can enhance the biological diversity in a garden, which is a cornerstone of ecological health.

Companion Planting with Marigolds for Healthier Soil

Marigolds are not just beneficial above the soil but also below.

Their roots can help to improve soil structure and organic content.

Certain marigold varieties, particularly deep-rooting ones, can help to break up compacted soil, making it more amenable to root growth and water infiltration.

Moreover, they can act as a living mulch, shading the soil, helping to keep it cool and moist, and suppressing weed growth.

Aesthetic and Functional Ground Cover

Beyond their practical benefits, marigolds serve as a striking ground cover.

Their dense growth can cover bare soil, reducing erosion and water loss due to evaporation.

Aesthetically, they can provide a lush, green understory in garden beds, setting off other plants and filling in gaps with their vibrant flowers.

Intercropping with Marigolds for Crop Protection

Intercropping with marigolds is another method to enhance the resilience of garden plants.

When marigolds are planted between rows of vegetables, they can act as a buffer, reducing the spread of pests and diseases between plants.

This spatial separation can be particularly effective in managing the spread of airborne pathogens and in disrupting the movement of soil-dwelling pests.

Suppressing Weeds

Marigolds, with their thick growth, can outcompete many common weeds.

By planting them close together, they create a living barrier, limiting the light and space available for weeds to establish.

This can help to reduce the gardener's workload and the reliance on herbicides.

An Ally Against Garden Pests

Spider mites and other garden pests find marigolds unfriendly.

Gardeners often use marigolds to draw spider mites away from valuable plants, making them an excellent trap crop.

Furthermore, the strong scent of marigolds can mask the scent trails that pests use to find their host plants, adding an extra layer of defense.

Encouraging A Healthy Ecosystem

Ultimately, marigolds contribute to a balanced garden ecosystem.

They encourage biodiversity, which is a fundamental principle of sustainable gardening.

A diverse garden is typically a healthy one, with a complex web of interactions that naturally keeps any one pest or disease from becoming a major problem.

How Marigolds Complement Vegetable Gardens

Enhancing Vegetable Growth

The alliance between marigolds and vegetable plants is more than aesthetic.

Each of these vegetables benefits from marigolds’ protective properties, whether through pest deterrence, attracting beneficial insects, or improving soil health.

Marigolds help to create an environment where the following vegetables can thrive:

Tomatoes:

The quintessential companion for marigolds.

Marigolds repel tomato hornworms and other pests, while their underground work against nematodes is particularly beneficial for these nematode-susceptible plants.

My recommended tomato seeds:

Cucumbers:

Cucumbers benefit from marigolds’ ability to repel aphids and beetles.

Plus, the increased pollinator activity encouraged by marigolds can lead to better cucumber yields.

My recommended cucumber seeds:

Carrots:

Marigolds can help deter carrot fly, and their strong scent masks the carrots’ enticing aroma to pests.

Moreover, the fine-textured foliage of carrots contrasts nicely with the bold marigold blooms above ground.

My recommended carrot seeds:

Beans:

Marigolds and beans are great companions.

The marigolds deter bean beetles and other pests while improving the soil conditions for the bean's root system to flourish.

My recommended bean seeds:

Peppers:

Marigolds can fend off nematodes and other pests that afflict peppers.

They also attract beneficial insects that prey on common pepper pests like aphids.

Check out my guide: Growing Jalapeños in Pots: A Spicy Addition to Your Garden.

My recommended pepper seeds:

Protection Against Nematodes:

The marigold's secret weapon lies in its roots, which exude a substance that is toxic to nematodes.

By planting marigolds among nematode-susceptible vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers, gardeners can naturally reduce nematode populations without the need for chemical soil treatments.

Marigold Varieties and Their Companions

Marigolds come in an array of types, each with specific characteristics and benefits that can complement different plants in your garden.

Here are some of the popular varieties of marigolds and the companion plants they synergize with:

French Marigolds (Tagetes patula)

These compact, bushy marigolds are not only vibrant with multicolored patterns ranging from yellow to deep orange, but they are also champions in nematode control.

They are particularly effective when planted alongside root vegetables that are often susceptible to nematode attacks.

Here are my recommended French Marigold Seeds:

• Companions for French Marigolds:

  • Tomatoes: The French marigold's nematode-repelling properties are a boon for tomatoes.

  • Eggplants: Similar to tomatoes, eggplants benefit from the nematode resistance these marigolds provide.

  • Potatoes: The scent of French marigolds can help deter potato pests.

  • Strawberries: Planting French marigolds nearby can help reduce nematode populations that might harm strawberry roots.

African Marigolds (Tagetes erecta)

African marigolds are taller and have larger blooms, making them ideal for adding height and color to vegetable gardens.

Their strong scent can mask vegetable scents from pests.

My recommended African Marigold Seeds:

• Companions for African Marigolds:

  • Leafy Greens: Lettuce, kale, and spinach can all benefit from the pest deterrent properties of African marigolds.

  • Squash: Planting African marigolds near squash can help keep away squash bugs and beetles.

  • Beets: Marigolds can benefit beets by deterring soil pests and attracting pollinators to the garden.

Signet Marigolds (Tagetes tenuifolia)

Signet marigolds are smaller and more delicate, with a lemony scent that can help repel pests.

They are perfect for edging and as a ground cover in both vegetable and herb gardens.

My recommended Signet Marigold Seeds:

• Companions for Signet Marigolds:

  • Herbs: Basil, chives, and cilantro can be protected from pests while enjoying the aesthetically pleasing ground cover of signet marigolds.

  • Root Vegetables: Carrots and radishes can thrive with the added pest protection from these marigolds.

Triploid Marigolds

These sterile hybrids of French and African marigolds combine the best qualities of both: the pest resistance of French marigolds and the large, showy blooms of African marigolds.

They work hard in the garden, deterring pests while not self-seeding excessively.

• Companions for Triploid Marigolds:

  • Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, and kale can benefit from the insect-repelling properties of triploid marigolds.

  • Cucurbits: The large and brightly colored flowers of triploids attract pollinators necessary for the fruiting of cucumbers, zucchinis, and pumpkins.

Pot Marigolds (Calendula officinalis)

Although not a true marigold (Tagetes), calendula is often called pot marigold and shares many companion planting benefits.

Its capacity to attract beneficial insects makes it a garden ally.

To learn more about growing calendula, check out my guide The Easiest Way to Grow Calendula from Seed.

My recommended Pot Marigold Seeds:

• Companions for Pot Marigolds:

  • Asparagus: Calendula can help keep asparagus beetles at bay.

  • Beans: Both bush and pole beans can benefit from calendula’s ability to attract pollinators and deter pests.

Tip: When planting marigolds as companions, it is important to consider timing and spacing.

Marigolds should be planted at the same time as the vegetable seedlings or a little before to establish their presence and begin their work in pest control and attracting beneficial insects.

Want to learn more about companion planting? Check out my guides:

• The Undisputed Best Oregano Companion Plants

• Blueberry Companion Plants: The Best and Worst

• Rhubarb Companion Planting: Do's and Don'ts

• Companion Plants for Cauliflower: Attracting Beneficial Insects

• Onion Companion Plants: Creating a Natural Ecosystem

Marigold Companion Planting in Herb Gardens

Marigolds are not just beneficial companions in the vegetable garden; they are equally valuable in the herb garden.

Their vibrant colors can brighten the green landscape of herbs, and their companion planting benefits extend to many culinary and medicinal herbs.

Here's how marigolds can play a supportive role in an herb garden:

Pest Deterrence:

Marigolds emit a strong fragrance that confuses and repels many garden pests.

By interplanting marigolds with herbs, you can naturally safeguard your herbs from common pests.

For instance, the presence of marigolds can deter aphids and whiteflies which are known to afflict herbs like basil.

Companions for Marigolds in Herb Gardens:

• Basil:

  This herb benefits from the insect-repelling properties of marigolds.

  The strong scent of marigolds can mask the attractive fragrance of basil, keeping pests at bay and reducing the likelihood of fungal diseases like mildew.

  To learn more about growing basil, check out my guides How to Harvest Basil Seeds the Right Way and The Best Basil Companion Plants.

• Chives:

  Marigolds can help protect chives from unwanted insects, while chives themselves can deter aphids and improve the growth and flavor of marigolds, making this pairing mutually beneficial.

• Cilantro:

  Also known as coriander, cilantro attracts beneficial insects that prey on aphids, while marigolds can repel other pests, creating a supportive environment for each other.

• Parsley:

  Planting marigolds nearby can help keep parsley free of pests, allowing it to grow lush and full. Marigolds can attract pollinators which is beneficial for when parsley blooms.

• Lavender:

  Marigolds can help protect young lavender plants from pests while the lavender matures, establishing its own pest-resistant properties through its essential oils.

Companion Planting Considerations:

• Spacing:

  Ensure marigolds are spaced appropriately among herbs so as not to overcrowd and compete for resources.

  This spacing helps maintain good air circulation, which is crucial for reducing the risk of fungal diseases in herbs.

• Variety Selection:

  Choose marigold varieties that match the height and spread of the herbs you're growing to create a balanced garden design.

  For example, smaller signet marigolds may be a better fit for compact herb gardens than the larger African varieties.

• Seasonal Planning:

  Marigolds can provide a continuous bloom throughout the growing season, which not only adds beauty to the herb garden but also offers lasting protection against pests.

• Aesthetic Integration:

  Beyond their utilitarian benefits, marigolds can add splashes of color between herb foliage, increasing the visual appeal of the garden.

  Their flowers can also be harvested for their own culinary and decorative uses, making them a versatile addition to any herb garden.

  To learn more about herb gardening, check out my guide How to Start a Raised Bed Herb Garden.

How to Plant Marigolds

Planting marigolds is a straightforward process that can bring a multitude of benefits to your garden.

Whether you’re interspersing them among vegetables and herbs or creating a dedicated flower bed, following these steps will ensure your marigolds thrive and provide maximum companionship to other plants.

Choosing the Right Location

Marigolds love the sun and require a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, such as a south-facing or west-facing part of the garden.

They are not overly fussy about soil type but do best in well-draining soil with moderate fertility. Avoid areas that are prone to waterlogging as marigolds do not like wet feet.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting, loosen the soil with a spade to about 6 to 8 inches deep and mix in compost or a balanced organic fertilizer to give your marigolds a good start.

This step is especially important if your soil is heavy clay or sand.

Sowing Seeds or Planting Seedlings

You can start marigolds from seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date or sow them directly into the ground once the danger of frost has passed.

• For Seeds:

  • Plant seeds about 1 inch apart and no more than 1 inch deep.

  • Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which typically takes 4 to 14 days.

  • Once seedlings have a few sets of leaves, thin them out so they are spaced according to the variety’s size (usually 8-18 inches apart).

• For Seedlings:

  • Dig holes just big enough for the root balls of your marigold seedlings.

  • Space them out according to the mature size of the variety, allowing enough room for growth and air circulation.

  • Firm the soil gently around the roots and water thoroughly.

Watering

Marigolds require regular watering to establish their root system, but once established, they are relatively drought tolerant.

Water at the base to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease.

For this, you can use rainwater collected from a water butt.

For more watering tips, check out my guide How Often to Water Seedlings.

Mulching

Applying a layer of organic mulch can help retain moisture, keep the roots cool, and suppress weeds.

Keep the mulch a few inches away from the plant stems to prevent rot.

Check out my guide: The Best Alternatives to Traditional Mulch for Your Garden.

Deadheading and Maintenance

To encourage more blooms, deadhead spent flowers by pinching off the flower head at the base of the stem. This also helps prevent the plants from self-seeding too prolifically.

FAQs

What should not be planted next to marigolds?

Marigolds are not compatible with cabbages.

They can potentially inhibit the growth of these plants, so it's best to keep them separated in the garden.

What to plant with marigolds in pots?

In pots, marigolds can be paired with smaller herbs or leafy greens that do not have deep roots.

They can also be planted alone as a colorful ornamental.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the resplendent marigold is not just a beautiful flower but an excellent companion plant that supports and enhances the health and vitality of your garden.

With their sunny disposition, marigolds illuminate garden beds, forging a natural alliance with a variety of plants.

By inviting these golden blooms into your garden, you not only embrace their beauty but also their protective qualities, forming a partnership that stands the test of time and nature.

We've journeyed through the myriad ways in which marigold companions can influence your vegetable patches, flower beds, and herb corners.

From repelling unwanted pests to inviting precious pollinators, marigolds fulfill their role as guardians and nurturers within the tapestry of your garden's ecosystem. Whether you're tucking them next to your tomatoes or setting them as a vibrant ground cover, marigolds remain an unwavering sentinel among your greens.

As you sow and nurture these excellent companion plants, you'll discover that the benefits of marigold companions go beyond what meets the eye. They are the unseen heroes of the garden, working diligently beneath their petals to create a more harmonious and flourishing garden space.

So, plant marigolds with confidence and watch as your garden transforms, becoming a testament to the harmony and balance that companion planting with marigolds can achieve.