Marigold Pest and Disease Types and How to Handle Them After They Fade
Marigolds rarely have disease and pest problems. Occasionally wet soil or pests can trigger one of several fungal infections, shown by discolored spots, mold coatings, or wilting on the leaves.. The best defense is to keep weeds down and the place where marigolds are planted well drained
Marigolds rarely have disease and pest problems. Occasionally wet soil or pests can trigger one of several fungal infections, shown by discolored spots, mold coatings, or wilting on the leaves.. The best defense is to keep weeds down and the place where marigolds are planted well drained. American marigolds tend to be more susceptible than other types.
Mites and aphids sometimes infect marigolds. Usually spraying with water or insecticidal soap once every other day for one or two weeks will solve the problem.
How do you handle marigolds after they fade?
Fresh marigold flowers are high-quality cut flowers both fresh and dried. For fresh bouquets, cut newly opened flowers in the early morning and immediately place the stems in a jar of warm water. Afterward, strip the lower leaves from the stems that might dirty the water, and place the flowers in a vase with fresh water. If you add some floral preservative to the vase water, calendulas will last a week or even longer.
Calendulas are very well suited to dried arrangements and flower crafts. Cut perfect flowers at their peak; remove the leaves from the stems; and hang them upside down in a warm, dry place, such as an attic, until dry. The flowers will shrink a little, but their color will stay strong. If support is needed in an arrangement, insert wire into the marigold stem.
Signet marigolds appear on many lists of edible flowers. The petals from their small flowers add vivid color and a spicy flavor to tossed salads. Once chopped, the petals make a pungent garnish for boiled eggs, steamed vegetables, or fish dishes. Use only homegrown flowers to ensure they are free of chemical pesticides. If you tend to be allergic to various grasses and other plants, be sure to take care.
