Marigolds

Did you guess the name of the flowers?  They're marigolds.  This cheerful little flower is classified as an annual herb that is native to South America and New Mexico.  It can be recognized by its round flower heads with frilly orange, yellow, and reddish petals.

Marigolds grow to be about 6 inches tall, but there are some varieties that can grow to 4 feet in height!

Marigolds like lots of sun, and moist, well-drained soil. Their seeds should be planted in March or early April, and it takes about 40 days for the sprouts to come up.

As you may already know, marigolds have a rather pungent odor.  This is useful in keeping away deer and aphids, so gardeners will often plant these near their vegetable gardens.  Marigolds also have a chemical in their roots that help repel harmful white worms called nematodes that can ruin tomatoes, potatoes, roses, and strawberries.

The petals of some marigolds are edible (hence, the reason they are classified as herbs).  The petals of the Signet marigold are sometimes used to add a little tang to salads.