Marigolds as insect deterrent

Betty wrote:

>>What has been your experience using marigolds as a natural way to keep away
insects which would want to eat the flowers?  I have heard for years that
this works.  First, is this true?  Or do they keep away certain insects,
but not all?<<

I've used them in my garden for years especially around my roses.  They are 
one of the few annuals I grow.  I've always felt that they helped, especially 
with nematodes.  They don't work on all insects, and they aren't a cure all 
with any insect.  They just help a little.  

>> If they do work, are there any varieties of marigolds which
seem to work better than others?<<

You want the old-fashioned French marigolds.  Get the smelly ones.  I sniff 
to be sure I'm getting the right ones.  Those fancy, refined, odorless 
marigolds won't help at all.

>>  One reason I'm not keen on the idea is that the bright oranges would kind 
of clash with my general color scheme. Perhaps the gentler yellows and whites 
might work in my garden.<<

I use the lemon yellow ones for the same reason.  If you can't find stinky 
yellow French marigolds, you can always pinch the blossoms off the orange 
ones.  They don't need to bloom to deter insects.  

--Janis

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