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Palapye plant feature - by Lynn Freeman
Marigolds, Tagetes spp.
Annuals mostly with a few
perennial species. Marigolds are
bright and easy-going in the garden
These flowers bring a mass of
gorgeous colours to our summer
and autumn flower beds.
Although there are many species of
marigold, most garden species are:
Tagetes erecta (African or Mexican
marigolds) This species is tall, reaching
almost 1m in height, producing large,
full flowers. They’re native to Mexico
and Central America and will thrive
even under drought-like conditions.
Tagetes patula (French marigolds)
French marigolds tend to be smaller,
bushier, and more compact. They
need more moderate watering.
Tagetes tenuifolia (Signet marigolds)
These petite marigolds do well in
hot, dry gardens and make for a
wonderful border, plus are edible.
Confusingly, Calendula officinalis is
called Pot marigold. Although it is
not a true marigold, it is an attractive
companion plant nonetheless.
Marigolds bring beneficial insects
to the garden like butterflies, bees,
ladybugs, and are great companion
plants in your vegetable garden. It can
help protect your veggies from predators
and pests. Its scent repels unwanted
pests such as whiteflies, cabbage
worms and nematodes according to
Zantedeschia aethiopica by P. L. Freeman some, and is used as a ‘trap’ plant, to
Marigold flowers by Lynn Freeman attract aphids away from your veggies.
