Marigolds, or tagetes (which are
known as Mexican or African marigolds and should not be confused
with calendulas), are flowers that are loved for their heartiness
as well as their ability to protect the garden from pests. These
herbaceous plants are members of the daisy family. Native to Mexico
and South America, marigolds have been used in Day of the Dead celebrations
and have been associated with the Virgin Mary - the name "marigold"
derives from "Mary's Gold."
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Because these plants are repellant
to insects and some animals, marigolds make great border flowers.
Their bright green foliage contrasts beautifully with their red,
orange, and yellow frilled flowers. Marigolds love full sun and
aren't particular about what soil they're planted in. They can be
purchased in dozens as they are inexpensive flowers, but the more
marigolds, the merrier - marigolds will provide color the whole
summer through.
Because marigolds are so easy to grow,
they are ideal "first flowers" for children to tend to.
A child's flower garden full of marigolds will flourish, and marigolds'
bright, pungent flowers can be plucked at will - for tiny bouquets,
for wishes, or to be tucked behind the ear of a garden princess.
