Why marigolds are essential for your garden's health and success

Marigolds are a beloved top choice for many gardeners seeking vibrant, low-maintenance flowers. These plants flourish in full sunlight, featuring vibrant orange and yellow blooms that can significantly enhance your garden’s aesthetic.

Why marigolds make great plants for your garden

Adding marigolds to your garden can boost endless benefits that are not just pretty but practical for your garden. Planting is a time-honoured gardening experience where plants are grown together to enhance the growth and health of your garden. These are the few essential benefits of planting marigolds.

Pest repellent properties

Marigolds are known to repel various pests through their natural chemical compounds within the plant’s tissues. These compounds are particularly effective against pests that attack your veggies. This is why most gardeners use marigolds as part of their companion planting.

Used in attracting beneficial wildlife

They are regarded as a powerhouse in gardens, flowering for extended periods and providing a rich source of nectar for various bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Their vibrant flowers are magnets for bees and butterflies, which are crucial for the pollination of many vegetable crops in your garden.

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Effective ground cover

Marigolds serve as an excellent ground cover, helping to protect the soil in your garden. They do this by conserving moisture and suppressing weeds without competing aggressively for nutrients. The plants are low-maintenance, requiring minimal nutrients, and will not deprive nearby plants of essential resources. When planning to plant marigolds in the garden, consider the correct light, water, and space needs for optimal growth.

Can be used as natural mulch

At the end of their growing season, marigolds are usually chopped and dropped onto the soil. This practice is done to support the soil’s ecosystem, which in turn helps control harmful insect populations. Additionally, using marigolds as mulch enhances overall soil health, benefiting a variety of crops.