Planting Lavender and Marigolds Together: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you wondering if you can plant lavender and marigolds together in your garden? The short answer is, yes, you can. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing to combine these two plants.

The Benefits of Planting Lavender and Marigolds Together

Lavender and marigolds both have their own unique benefits when planted separately in a garden. But did you know that planting them together can provide even more benefits?

Firstly, marigolds are known to repel pests, such as mosquitoes, aphids, and whiteflies. Lavender, on the other hand, is known for its calming aroma and ability to attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. By planting these two together, you can create a natural insect repellent and attract more beneficial pollinators to your garden.

Additionally, both lavender and marigolds are drought-tolerant and low-maintenance plants. They both prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making them great companions in a garden.

Choosing the Right Location

Before planting lavender and marigolds together, it's important to choose the right location. As mentioned earlier, both plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Make sure to choose an area in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight and has well-draining soil.

It's also helpful to choose a location where the soil has not been used to grow other plants in the same family, such as daisies or chrysanthemums. These plants can carry diseases and pests that can harm lavender and marigolds.

The Planting Process

Once you've chosen the right location, it's time to start planting. Here are some steps to follow:

Prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris and adding compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.

Plant the marigolds first, spacing them at least 6 inches apart. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the plant's root ball and gently place the plant in the hole, backfilling with soil and pressing down to eliminate air pockets.

Next, plant the lavender, spacing them 12-18 inches apart. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the plant's root ball, place the plant in the hole, and backfill with soil, being careful not to bury the plant too deeply.

Water the plants thoroughly and add a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Caring for Your Lavender and Marigolds

Now that your lavender and marigolds are planted, it's important to care for them properly. Here are some tips:

Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells.

Fertilize sparingly, using a balanced organic fertilizer once a year in the spring.

Pinch back the flowers on the marigolds to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.

Prune the lavender in the spring, removing any dead or damaged stems and shaping the plant as desired.

In Conclusion

Planting lavender and marigolds together can provide a beautiful and beneficial addition to any garden. By following these tips for choosing the right location, planting process, and caring for them properly, you can enjoy a healthy and thriving garden filled with these wonderful plants.