Town & Country Gardens: Tagetes

Marigold (Tagetes patula)
Other Names - French Marigold.
Origins - Mexico, and other parts of N., C., and S. America
Type - Annual (herbaceous).
Hardiness (see References, below) - Will grow in most Summer gardens.
Bloom - Summer, till frosts.
Height
Approx. 1 ft (30 cm).
Cultivation - Sunny locations, will tolerate most well drained soils. Average water needs. Will tolerate dry soils.
Propagation - By seeds; just "sprinkle" the seeds on top of the soil, gently press, and
water. They will germinate fast, and at a good rate.
Other - Often referred to as "gardeners' best friend", this fragrant plant is pretty, and useful in any garden. It is said to repel common pests, such as Mexican Bean Beetle.

It makes good companion to many plants, particularly, beans, tomatoes, oregano, marjoram. I have planted it
around our young gardenia bush, which more than doubled in size, during Summer months. Marigolds are fragrant. All parts of the plant are edible. Dried petals are sometimes used to flavor soups, and sauces. Marigolds make popular home remedies for indigestion.
Marigold, - easy to grow, great to enjoy!