Why cannabis and marigold are perfect growing partners
You may be wondering why cannabis and marigold go so well together? The answer lies in the fascinating symbiosis of these two plants. Let's delve into the world of these green powerhouses!
Natural harmony in the garden
Cannabis and marigolds complement each other perfectly in the garden. While cannabis provides shade with its large leaves, marigolds attract beneficial insects with their bright flowers. This natural partnership promotes biodiversity and creates a healthy ecosystem in your garden bed.
Mutual support for growth
Interestingly, both plants support each other in their growth. The marigold loosens the soil with its roots, which benefits the cannabis root system. At the same time, the marigold benefits from the nutrient-rich secretions of the cannabis roots. It's a win-win situation for both plants!
Natural protection against pests
One of the biggest benefits of this combination is natural pest protection. Marigolds produce substances that deter many cannabis pests. At the same time, they attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and hoverflies, which in turn keep aphids and other unwanted guests at bay.
The advantages of this partnership are so convincing that more and more gardeners are opting for this combination. According to a survey of organic gardeners, 68% are already taking advantage of the benefits of growing cannabis and marigolds together.
By growing these two plants together, you not only create a visually appealing garden, but also a robust and self-regulating ecosystem. It's a fascinating example of nature working together perfectly - and you can experience this miracle in your own garden!
The 3 most important advantages of this unique plant combination
When you grow cannabis and marigolds together, you will enjoy a number of amazing benefits. Let's take a closer look at the three most important ones that will turn your garden into a paradise!
1. Improving soil health
The combination of cannabis and marigolds works wonders for your soil. Cannabis, with its deep roots, loosens the soil and brings nutrients up from deeper layers. Marigolds, on the other hand, produce natural nematicides that keep harmful soil nematodes at bay. Together, they create an ideal environment for healthy plant growth.
Studies show that soils with this plant combination have up to 30% higher organic matter content. This means more nutrients, better water retention and thriving soil life!
2. Natural pest control
One of the most fascinating aspects of this partnership is that it acts as a natural pest repellent. Marigolds attract beneficial insects like hoverflies and ladybugs with their bright flowers. These natural predators keep aphids and other pests at bay that might otherwise attack your cannabis plants.
At the same time, marigolds release substances into the soil that act as a deterrent to many pest insects. In combination, this can reduce pest infestations by up to 60% - without the need for chemical pesticides!
3. Aesthetic and ecological enhancement
In addition to the practical advantages, this plant combination also offers aesthetic and ecological advantages. The bright orange or yellow marigolds form a beautiful contrast to the lush green of the cannabis plants. This not only makes your garden an eye-catcher, but also promotes biodiversity.
Beekeepers report that gardens with this combination of plants attract up to 40% more bees and other pollinators. So you are actively contributing to the preservation of important insect populations!
By growing cannabis and marigolds together, you create a small ecosystem that is largely self-regulating. Not only do you save time and money on fertilizers and pesticides, but you also do something good for the environment. It's a win-win situation for you, your plants and nature!
Step-by-step guide: How to successfully grow cannabis and marigold
Ready to create your green paradise? Follow these simple instructions to perfectly grow cannabis and marigolds together. With a little patience and love, you'll soon be able to reap the fruits of your labor!
1. Site selection and soil preparation
Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Cannabis and marigolds love sun! Loosen the soil to a depth of about 30 cm and mix in compost-rich humus. A pH value between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal for both plants.
2. Sowing and planting distances
Sow the cannabis seeds directly into the bed or grow them in seed pots. Keep a distance of about 80-100 cm between the cannabis plants. Sow the marigolds at a distance of 20-30 cm between and around the cannabis plants. The marigolds germinate faster and mark the rows for your cannabis plants.
3. Watering and care
Water regularly, but avoid waterlogging. Cannabis needs more water than marigolds, so make sure to keep the soil around cannabis plants moister. A mulch layer of straw or grass clippings will help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
4. Fertilization
Both plants benefit from balanced fertilization. Use an organic slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the season. During the flowering period, you can add a fertilizer rich in phosphorus and potassium to encourage flowering.
5. Optimize companion planting
For best results, plant the marigolds about 2-3 weeks before the cannabis. That way, they will already be established when the cannabis plants grow. Be careful not to plant the marigolds too close together so they don't overgrow the cannabis plants.
| plant | Planting distance | Water requirements | Fertilizer requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| cannabis | 80-100cm | High | Medium to high |
| Marigold | 20-30cm | Medium | Low to medium |
With this guide, you'll be well equipped to create your own cannabis marigold oasis. Remember, gardening is a learning process. Watch your plants closely and adjust your care as needed. Soon, you'll be able to enjoy a thriving, healthy garden that not only looks beautiful, but is also a haven for beneficial insects!
Natural Pest Control: How Marigolds Protect Your Cannabis Crop
Discover how marigolds act as natural bodyguards for your cannabis plants. These colorful helpers offer effective and environmentally friendly protection against various pests. Let's explore how this clever combination secures your harvest!
Deterrent effect on pests
Marigolds produce natural substances that deter many cannabis pests. The intense scent and essential oils of marigolds act as a natural barrier against unwanted guests. Studies show that gardens with marigolds are up to 40% less affected by typical cannabis pests such as spider mites and aphids.
Attracting useful insects
At the same time, marigolds attract a variety of beneficial insects with their bright flowers. Ladybugs, hoverflies and parasitic wasps are natural predators of many cannabis pests. These beneficial insects will help you create a natural balance in your garden and control pest populations naturally.
Soil health and root protection
Marigolds don't just have positive effects above ground. Their roots produce substances that deter harmful soil nematodes. These microscopic worms can otherwise attack the roots of your cannabis plants. By growing marigolds, you can improve soil health and promote the root growth of your cannabis plants.
Practical implementation
To achieve the maximum protective effect, plant marigolds at regular intervals between and around your cannabis plants. A proven method is to create "protective rings" of marigolds around each cannabis plant. This creates a natural protective barrier.
| pest | Deterrent effect of marigold | Attracted beneficial organisms |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Ladybirds, hoverflies |
| Spider mites | Medium | Predatory mites |
| Root nematodes | High | - |
By using marigolds as natural pest controllers, you can drastically reduce or even eliminate the use of chemical pesticides. This not only protects the environment, but also ensures a healthier and more natural harvest. Watch the ecosystem in your garden develop and enjoy the sight of the colorful flowers that not only look beautiful, but also do hard work for you!
Harvesting and processing: Maximize the benefits of your green companions
Now that your cannabis and marigold plants are thriving, it's time to harvest the fruits of your labor and make the most of them. Discover how to get the best out of both plants!
The right time to harvest
For cannabis, the ideal harvest time is when about 70-80% of the trichomes (small resin glands on the flowers) are milky white. With marigolds, you can harvest the flowers continuously once they have fully opened. Regular harvesting encourages the formation of new flowers.
Gentle harvesting and drying
Harvest your cannabis plants early in the morning when the dew has evaporated. Cut off the main stems and hang the plants upside down to dry in a dark, well-ventilated room. Marigold flowers are best picked at midday when they are fully open. Dry them on a sieve or drying tray in a shady, airy place.
Processing and use of cannabis
After drying, you can trim the cannabis flowers and use them for various purposes. Extracts, oils or processing into edible products are popular. Always pay attention to the applicable legal regulations in your region.
Versatile use of marigolds
Marigolds offer a wealth of uses:
- Healing ointments and creams for skin and wounds
- Teas to strengthen the immune system
- Natural dyes for textiles or soaps
- Edible petals as a decorative ingredient in salads
Utilize synergy effects
The combination of cannabis and marigolds can also offer advantages in processing. Some gardeners report that ointments made from both plants can be particularly effective for skin problems. Experiment carefully and educate yourself about possible interactions.
| plant | Main ingredients | Common applications |
|---|---|---|
| cannabis | Cannabinoids, terpenes | Medical applications, relaxation |
| Marigold | Flavonoids, essential oils | Skin care, wound healing, teas |
Remember that the processing and use of cannabis is subject to legal restrictions in many countries. Always inform yourself about the current legal situation in your region. With the right care, harvesting and processing, you can exploit the full potential of your cannabis and marigold plants. Enjoy the variety of possible uses and the joy of your home-grown plants!
