What pests does calendula naturally repel?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Calendula offers natural pest deterrence through biochemical compounds incorporated into its roots and flowers. These compounds provide a protective barrier around companion plants, reducing the need for pesticide applications. Learning which pests calendula deters in advance will help keep your garden healthy without the use of chemicals.
The pest-repelling power of the plant derives from the terpenoids and volatile oils which it produces in its tissues. These agents interfere with the feeding and mating behaviors of insects. Root exudates also form unwelcoming soil environments for nematodes. It has a continuous biochemical mode of action during the growing season.
Above-Ground Pests
- Aphids avoid plants near calendula due to terpenoid scent markers
- Whiteflies get confused by volatile oil compounds disrupting navigation
- Tomato hornworms experience feeding deterrents from root chemicals
Soil-Borne Threats
- Root-knot nematodes avoid areas with calendula root exudates
- Beetle larvae encounter growth inhibitors in surrounding soil
- Fungus gnats decrease near calendula's antimicrobial compounds
Companion Benefits
- Increases pollination by attracting beneficial hoverflies
- Boosts plant immunity in neighboring vegetables
- Creates habitat for predatory insects like ladybugs
Optimize calendula for pest control with effective planting techniques. Construct protective borders going around vegetable beds, interspersed with alternating calendula plants, and interplant calendula between the rows of susceptible crops. Focus calendula plantings as borders around high-value vegetables, such as tomatoes and cucumbers.
Maintain calendula plants properly for continuous protection. Remove spent flowers regularly to stimulate new oil production. Avoid overhead watering, which dilutes protective compounds. Healthy plants with vibrant blooms provide a strong deterrent effect against pests throughout the season.
Discover the limitations of calendula in controlling specific pests. It does not repel slugs or snails, which may even eat the leaves of calendula. Japanese beetles respond minimally to the deterrents from calendula. Use calendula in conjunction with additional pest control tactics for optimal protection.
Read the full article: How to Grow Calendula: Complete Guide
