African Marigold (Tagetes erecta)
Observation
The picture of this marigold was taken on 20 September 2011 in my mother's garden. There are many other flowers in the garden but the marigolds seem to have taken over. The bushes are thick and full. The color of the flower is brilliant orange and the leaves are a beautiful shade of green. It appears that the leaves of this flower have be attacked by white mold. As I observed, I noticed that bees were attracted to its flowers. I watch for several minutes as the bees moved from flower to flower.
Questions
What are companion plants? Why are companion plants, such as the African Marigold, used? How does the marigold deter pests?
Scientific Research
Vicory, Roy. Plants Used for Pest Control: Some Twentieth Century Examples, Folklore, Vol. 104 (1993), pp. 171.
Companion plants are plants that encourage the health, growth and productivity of other plants by deterring the presence of harmful pests. Marigold have been known to deter white flies when they are a companion to tomatoes and carrots. Marigolds deter pests because the flower has a scent that offends some insects and animals. Below the surface, marigolds can also repel nematodes, microscopic worms, for about 3 years. Though marigolds help to deter pests from attacking other plant life, they have vulnerabilities to insects such as spider mites and grasshoppers.
Further Information
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