Tagetes commonly called Marigolds originated in Mexico.
Every year from early March, thousands of Marigold seedlings are planted around the world in all the famous parks and gardens: Hampton Court and Kew in London, England; Botanic in Munich, Germany; Ball’s in Chicago, USA; Edwards in Toronto, Canada; and in France, the Netherlands and China just to name a few. The Netherlands hosts many flower festivals featuring these flowers looking like an amazing carpet.
Marigolds are a garden favourite with brilliant golden yellow and orange solitary heads of double flowers with dissected evergreen leaves
Two of the most popular Marigolds are the French Dwarf Mixed in four colours and the African Mixed in two colours. Marigolds brighten up garden beds with their lively colours.
Years ago, both the Botanical and the Promenade gardens in Georgetown had many beds and borders of Marigolds; these were the main attraction of both gardens. When I was a child, we went for walks in these gardens many afternoons admiring these flowers and to see the birds and butterflies dancing among them. Unfortunately, they are all gone now. Almost all of the seasonal flowers have disappeared over the years.
Marigolds are also useful plants to have in your garden as they help to control nematode infestation and repel insects.
So how about planting some Marigolds and enjoying their beauty and benefits.
Until next week, Happy Gardening.
