Did you know that marigolds contain a chemical compound called thiophene that acts as a natural insect repellent?1 This vibrant flower not only adds a pop of color to your garden but also offers a natural solution to keeping pesky yellowjackets at bay.
Marigolds emit a strong, pungent scent that yellowjackets find unappealing, making them less likely to invade your outdoor space. By strategically planting marigolds around your yard, you can create an effective barrier against these aggressive insects without resorting to harmful chemical sprays.
Here’s the science behind marigolds’ pest-repelling properties and how to choose the right varieties. Along with tips for incorporating them into your landscape.
The Science Behind Marigolds’ Pest-Repelling Properties
Marigolds are known for their distinct, musky odor, which is pleasant to humans but overwhelming to many insects, including yellowjackets. This scent is due to the presence of thiophenes, a class of volatile organic compounds found in marigolds.
Thiophenes are particularly concentrated in French and African marigolds, making them the most effective varieties for pest control.
In addition to their strong scent, some marigolds also release a toxic chemical from their roots called alpha-terthienyl that can deter nematodes, which are microscopic worms that damage plant roots.(ref) This ability to ward off both above-ground and below-ground pests makes marigolds an excellent companion plant for many crops.
Choosing the Right Marigold Variety
While there are over 50 species of marigolds, the three most commonly planted around homes are French (Tagetes patula), African (Tagetes erecta), and Signet (Tagetes tenuifolia) marigolds. All three varieties thrive in full sun and hot climates, making them ideal for summer gardens.
French marigolds are known for their tolerance to wet conditions, while African and Signet varieties are more drought-resistant. When selecting marigolds for your garden, consider your local climate and soil conditions to ensure the best results.
Research has shown that French marigolds, especially the ‘Tangerine’ variety, are particularly effective at repelling pests.
Planting & Caring for Marigolds
Marigolds are relatively easy to grow and care for, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. They can be planted directly in the soil after the last frost in early spring and throughout the summer.
Plant marigolds in sunny locations with well-draining soil to maximize their yellowjacket-repelling properties. Water them regularly, especially when young, but avoid overwatering as marigolds are susceptible to root rot.
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season.
Incorporating Marigolds into Your Landscape
Plant marigolds strategically around your outdoor living spaces, such as patios, decks, and picnic areas to deter yellowjackets. You can also use them as border plants around your vegetable garden or flower beds to create a protective barrier.
Consider pairing marigolds with other pest-repelling plants like mint, lavender, and rosemary for an even more effective natural pest-control solution. By incorporating these plants into your landscape, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that is less attractive to yellowjackets and other unwanted insects.
Additional Benefits of Marigolds
Beyond their pest-repelling properties, marigolds offer several other benefits for your garden:
- Attracting beneficial insects: Marigolds attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can help improve the overall health and productivity of your garden.
- Edible flowers: Marigold petals are edible and can add a unique flavor and visual appeal to salads, desserts, and beverages.
- Companion planting: Marigolds make excellent companion plants for many vegetables, as they can help deter pests and improve soil health.
- Medicinal properties: Several marigold species have been used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory properties and healing digestive tract problems.
Marigolds offer a natural, eco-friendly solution to keeping yellowjackets at bay in your garden. By harnessing the power of their pungent scent and pest-repelling properties, you can enjoy a more pleasant outdoor experience without resorting to harmful chemical sprays.
So, add some vibrant marigolds to your garden this season and watch as the yellowjackets buzz off to find a more inviting place to call home.
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Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.