What are the features of marigolds
Marigold is an annual plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Marigold flowers are found almost everywhere in the world, and there are about 60 different species.
Botanical features of marigolds:
- long tap root can reach 20 cm in depth;
- the stem is straight, branched, reaches a height of 40-80 cm. The foliage is rich dark green in color and often smells strongly;
- leaves of a lanceolate form are arranged alternately on the stem, do not have petioles;
- inflorescence -basket with tubular, reed flowers.
Marigolds grow easily, bloom for a long time, and repel many harmful insects. The height of the plants depends on the variety, they also differ in color, shape and aroma. Low-growing varieties form dense carpets of flowers. Most varieties bloom from early summer to late autumn.
Types and varieties of marigolds are divided into three main groups: African, American and Mexican. French marigold (Tagetes patula) and African marigold (Tagetes erecta) are the main species grown in home gardens.
Types and varieties of marigolds
African marigolds have large, double flowers about 12 cm in diameter, and can grow to over 60 cm. Colors include yellow and orange. One of the most common annuals.
French marigolds are small dense plants up to 30 cm in height. Double flowers up to 5 cm in diameter, depending on the species, have yellow, orange or red hues. They tolerate rainy weather better than the larger African marigolds.
Note! Marigolds are not only decorative, but also a protective plant. The specific fragrant smell and aroma of secretions from the roots in the soil protect not only the flowers themselves from many diseases, but also what grows nearby. They are also thought to kill soil nematodes.
Ground cover plants are often used as borders to repel snails. The roots of these plants leave a certain amount of humus in the soil, which corresponds to green manure.
Growing marigolds
The plants are easy to care for and do not place great demands on the soil and location. They ideally like nutrient-rich, well-drained and slightly moist soil. Then they usually do not need additional fertilizers. Care for them is practically not required.
Location
A garden plant needs a warm, sunny spot in the garden, and the more sun there is, the better they will thrive. If planted in shady and cool damp areas, marigolds are prone to powdery mildew and bloom poorly.
As Border
Marigolds are drought-resistant plants that thrive in sunny and hot weather.
Watering
Water marigolds well when planting, and keep the soil evenly moist for the first two weeks until they take root. Later, they are watered only if the weather has been very dry for more than two weeks. If they are in containers, water daily as the soil dries out quickly there.
It is best to water marigolds at the base of the plant, not from above. Tightly doubled flower heads will rot from excess moisture. Mulching between plants will help keep the soil moist and prevent weeds.
Choosing and preparing a landing site
Depending on the variety and climatic conditions, from April to August they can be sown directly in the garden in rows, or between vegetables. Also used for edging borders, and container plantings.
- Prepare the soil by digging it about 20 cm to loosen it.
- If the soil lacks nutrients, add a little fertilizer.
- Moisten the soil, then sow the seeds.
While the sprouts are small, they are thinned out. Large African marigolds should be at least 40 cm apart.
How to grow marigolds
Once the marigolds have taken root, the tops of the plants are pinched off to make them thicker and will encourage them to bloom more.
Additional Information! Marigolds do not require pruning, but regular removal of dying inflorescences will promote abundant flowering.
During growth, they are not fertilized. Ground too rich in nitrogen stimulates lush foliage at the expense of flowers. Fertilize as needed to keep them blooming profusely.
Marigolds from pests: benefits for the garden
Marigolds can be used as so-called “companion plants” because their highly fragrant leaves repel certain pests. A popular method is to plant marigolds around tomatoes and cucumbers to repel whiteflies.
Companion plants
Research shows that marigold roots produce toxic substances that kill nematodes that feed on plant roots.
Note! Marigolds benefit them in that they attract many beneficial insects that prey on harmful ones, which is a very positive thing. Thanks to their deep taproots, they loosen the soil and act as green manure.
Growing marigolds from seeds
Marigolds can be bought as seedlings and seeds. Growing marigolds from seeds at home is simple, they germinate quickly.
Growing marigolds from seeds
It is not difficult to collect seeds from a flower; you need to wait until the flowers fade and dry. After collecting the seeds, they are dried for about a day. It is better to store them in a paper envelope to avoid additional moisture. They are sown in the spring to get a new generation of marigolds.
Indoors, seeds are sown four to six weeks before the desired outdoor planting time. Seedlings can be transplanted when their height is 10 cm.
In heated soil, seeds are sown directly in the garden. Marigolds germinate within a week in warm weather, and the plants usually flower in about 8 weeks.
Diseases and pests
In general, marigolds have few pests or problems, but occasionally the plants become infested with spider mites and aphids. Usually this problem is solved by spraying water on the bushes, or applying insecticidal soap every other day for a week or two.
Sometimes marigolds are affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew if conditions are too humid. To prevent the appearance of fungi, do not allow water to get on the marigold leaves, and plant them in well-drained soil.
Marigolds are susceptible to diseases caused by viruses. Symptoms of a viral infection: spots on the leaves, yellowed leaves with green veins.
Marigolds in folk medicine
Flowers are used in folk medicine to treat many diseases and strengthen the immune system. For medicinal purposes, reed flowers or inflorescences are used. Dried flowers and leaves are suitable for herbal teas.
Flowers are used in folk medicine
Medicinal marigolds are used as an infusion for the treatment of ulcers and gastritis, diseases of the liver and biliary tract. Marigolds are also used to treat various wounds, insect bites, burns, acne, eczema.
- Promotes skin healing: heals skin wounds, burns and rashes.
- Has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Contains the antioxidant vitamin A.
- Helps with eye infections.
- Helps soothe the mucous membranes of the throat and relieve pain.
Marigolds have long been used to treat skin problems such as cuts, burns, wounds and rashes due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Reduces inflammation, redness, sensitivity, dryness and swelling. Used for general skin care as they contain essential oils and a high concentration of flavonoids such as carotene. According to studies, high levels of polyphenols have a rejuvenating effect on the skin.
They help the body remove toxic substances that have accumulated in the body. benefits the digestive, lymphatic system, relieves inflammation of the lymph nodes.
Marigold flowers are useful for the proper regulation of the processes occurring in the female reproductive system. These flowers help relieve menstrual pain and cramps.
Due to their strong scent and essential oil content, these flowers can be used as a natural defense against mosquitoes, pests and other insects.
Flowers are used to repel mosquitoes
The popularity of this plant is in its ability to constantly bloom. They can be used in almost any corner of the garden, as well as on verandas, balconies, terraces. When many plants gradually fade in the garden, marigolds will still bloom.
