Planting Marigolds Too Late – Marigolds need weeks to establish before they effectively repel pests. – Plant them 2-3 weeks before your main crops for best results.
Choosing the Wrong Marigold Variety – Not all marigolds work for pest control! – French marigolds are best for nematode control, while African marigolds work against aphids and whiteflies.
Spacing Them Too Far Apart – Marigolds need to be close to crops to offer protection. – Keep them within 12 inches of companion plants for maximum effect.
Expecting Marigolds to Repel All Pests – Marigolds help deter nematodes, aphids, and whiteflies, but they won’t stop caterpillars or slugs. – Use them alongside other pest control methods.
Not Removing Spent Blooms – Dead marigold flowers reduce nectar production, making them less attractive to beneficial insects. – Regular deadheading keeps them blooming and effective.
Forgetting to Rotate Marigolds Yearly – Planting marigolds in the same spot every year reduces their pest-fighting power. – Rotate them with different crops to prevent pests from adapting.