I'm planning to plant marigolds in my garden to help with pest control, but they took way too long to bloom last year. Should I start them indoors? I want to get them going early enough this time. Also, what other flowers or plants can I grow to attract bees and keep pests away? I'm in zone 6A/5B. Thanks for any tips!
3 Answers
I tried starting them indoors too, but I find that I just end up sowing them directly into the ground. They need a cold period to germinate, which might explain why some seeds take longer when started indoors. But hey, if you want a variety of flowers, zinnias are great for bees and butterflies, plus they bloom all summer long!
Starting marigolds indoors is definitely a smart move! It's recommended to sow them 6-8 weeks before the last frost. I usually start mine around the same time as my tomatoes. That way, by the time you transplant them, they'll be ready to bloom and do their pest-repelling magic!
Totally agree! I start mine indoors as well, and it really makes a difference.
For attracting more pollinators, try planting perennials like lavender, bee balm, and yarrow. They really help bring in the bees! As for annuals, borage and alyssum are excellent choices since they bloom profusely and are beloved by pollinators. Marigolds are good, but these might give you even better results!
Good point! I might try zinnias as well.