They look lovely in planters, hanging baskets or ornamental beds or borders. But they can also be an excellent addition to your vegetable garden.
French marigolds should not be confused with another useful plant –Calendula (sometimes referred to as Pot Marigold).
Marigolds are tall flowers, growing up to nearly three feet in height. They are globe-shaped and can be either red, orange, or yellow. They represent passion, creativity, and have been associated with the legendary courageous lion.
Along with these origins, marigolds are often seen in gardens due to their remarkable properties.
Vegetable gardening is a great hobby and a perfect resource to obtain fresh, natural foods. With that being said, when you hear about growing marigold flowers in your garden, it may sound confusing.
Marigold may be a flower, but with its make-up and naturally derived elements,it is able to provide an incredible amount of benefits for your vegetable garden.
Here are the best reasons to grow Marigold in your vegetable Garden.
Marigolds Are Easy to Grow
One of the main reasons why gardeners choose marigolds is because they are easy to grow. They generally start to germinate within 1-2 weeks after planting, which is no time at all compared to many other species.
These flowers thrive in a vast range of soil types as well, making them easy to transfer if need be. Generally speaking, as long as they are watered and have plenty of sun, they will be in excellent condition with minimal need for maintenance.
Attract Bees and Other Pollinators
Having these flowers blooming in your garden is a great way to attract bees and other pollinators that can contribute to your garden throughout the growing season. They promote pollination and gives your crops the right elements they need to thrive.
Though many vegetables, such as tomatoes, green beans, and green peppers are self-pollinating, you can help them and other ones along by provoking natural pollinators with marigold presence.
Marigolds Are Edible Plants
You might not realize this, but marigolds are also one of plenty of edible flowers that you could grow amongst your fruits and vegetables. Marigolds are not just a good companion plant – they are an edible crop in their own right.
The petals can be added to a range of salads, as in this excellent example:
The petals of French marigolds can also be added as decoration to cupcakes or other baked goods, and used decoratively in a whole host of other ways in your kitchen.
Attract Predatory Insects
Not only do Marigolds help with pest control due to their own unique chemicals and compounds, they also attract other wanted insects that can help rid your garden of harmful pests that the flowers cannot fight on their own.
Some helpful insects they bring in include ladybugs, hoverflies and parasitic mini-wasps, all of which eat aphids and other harmful pests.
They Add Color and Beauty
With all of the benefits that the Marigold flower provides, do not forget about the fact that it is an absolutely beautiful contributor to your garden. It illuminates, gives vibrance and colors, giving your garden an even more enchanting appeal than you could have ever imagined.