Why Are Marigolds on the “Blacklist”? These Are the 3 Reasons.

Although the daphne boasts a beautiful form, an enchanting fragrance, and a glorious flowering period, why do so many people blacklist this plant?

Administrator

3 September, 2024

The Gardenia, with its pristine white blooms and intoxicating fragrance, is a beloved flower for many enthusiasts. Its allure, be it the immaculate white blossoms or the refreshing scent, is irresistible to those who seek to adorn their living spaces and infuse a sense of tranquility into their homes each spring and summer.

The Gardenia’s pure white flowers and fragrant aroma evoke a sense of freshness. Whether planted outdoors or kept inside, it creates a peaceful and serene environment. On summer evenings, the gentle breeze carrying the flower’s subtle fragrance is especially delightful.

Gardenias typically bloom from late spring to early summer, gracing us with their extended flowering period and providing a double delight for our senses of sight and smell.

But despite its alluring beauty, enchanting fragrance, and wonderful blooming season, why is the Gardenia often blacklisted by many? Here are the three reasons why.

1. Demanding Care Requirements, Prone to Leaf Yellowing

While the Gardenia is undoubtedly a stunning plant, its care and maintenance are far from easy. One of the biggest concerns for many gardeners is leaf yellowing and drop. Gardenias have stringent water and light requirements, and failing to meet these needs can quickly lead to leaves turning yellow.

Overwatering can cause root rot, while insufficient watering can impact flowering. During the rainy season, overwatering can be particularly detrimental, leading to water accumulation in the roots and potentially killing the entire plant.

This can be disheartening for flower enthusiasts. Additionally, Gardenias prefer acidic soil, and if the pH level is not suitable, it will directly affect the plant’s growth.

2. Prone to Pests and Diseases

Another significant issue with Gardenias is their susceptibility to pests and diseases. Whether grown outdoors or indoors, Gardenias can fall prey to problems like powdery mildew, leaf spot, and spider mites. In humid environments, these pests and diseases become even more aggressive, and if left unchecked, they can cause the entire plant to wither.

For novice gardeners, by the time they notice the issue, it may already be too late. Even experienced gardeners often feel helpless when confronted with the constant battle against pests and diseases affecting their Gardenias.

While various pesticides are available on the market, improper use can not only fail to cure the problem but also cause further harm to the Gardenia.

3. Challenging to Induce Flowering

While Gardenias have an extended flowering period, getting them to bloom can be a challenge. For a Gardenia to flower, several conditions must be met, including sufficient light, suitable temperature, and proper soil pH.

If any of these conditions are not met, the Gardenia may refuse to bloom. Many enthusiasts work tirelessly for a year, only to be disappointed by a sparse showing of flowers, if any at all.

Additionally, caring for a Gardenia demands time and patience. A slight lapse in care can impact its flowering. During the rainy season, high humidity and insufficient light can hinder blooming. Some enthusiasts even question if they have purchased a genuine Gardenia, as despite their best efforts, their plant refuses to flower.

Frequently asked questions

Marigolds are often placed on a gardening ‘blacklist’ due to three main reasons: their strong fragrance, potential to be invasive, and their ability to attract pests.

The first issue with marigolds is their potent fragrance. While some people find the scent pleasant, it can be overwhelming and is often described as ‘pungent’ or ‘musky’. This strong fragrance can be off-putting to those with sensitive senses or allergies.

Marigolds are vigorous growers and can quickly take over a garden bed if not properly contained. They produce a large number of seeds, which can lead to them becoming invasive and outcompeting other plants. Marigolds are also known to self-seed freely, meaning they can pop up unexpectedly in other areas of the garden.

Unfortunately, marigolds are more of a pest magnet than a beneficial insect attractor. They are known to lure in slugs, snails, and Japanese beetles, which can then cause damage to other plants in the garden. While some beneficial insects may visit marigold flowers, the overall balance tends to favor pests.

Despite the drawbacks, marigolds do have their benefits. They are easy to grow, making them great for beginner gardeners. Marigolds also have vibrant colors and can be used effectively as a companion plant for certain vegetables, such as tomatoes, to help deter root-knot nematodes.