French marigold (Tagetes patula) x 45 seeds

French marigolds are more compact in stature, with smaller flowers.

A Natural Pest Deterrent: Like other marigold varieties, French Marigolds are famous for their ability to repel garden pests, including nematodes, aphids, and even rabbits. This feature is attributed to their strong scent, released from their flowers and foliage.

French Marigolds are compact bushy annuals from Mexico and the flowers come in various combinations of reds, oranges, and yellows. They need sun to partial sun in well-drained dry to moist soil. They will bloom the season-long if kept deadheaded of spent blooms.

Marigold companion planting enhances the growth of basil, broccoli, cabbage, cucumbers, eggplant, gourds, kale, potatoes, squash and tomatoes. Marigold also makes a good companion plant to melons because it deters beetles. Beans and cabbage are listed as bad companion plants for marigolds.

How much space do French marigolds need?

8 to 10 inches apart

In planting beds, space African marigolds 10 to 12 inches apart, while French marigolds should be 8 to 10 inches apart.