Q. What makes marigolds so unique?

Tomatoes eggplants chili peppers and potatoes all benefit from growing alongside marigolds because of their ability to deter pests with their strong smell. Marigolds are the best deer-resistant plant because their strong aroma deters most invasive species and because their roots discourage nematodes from growing in the soil. Gray mold or leaf spots and powdery mildew can affect the foliage and damping off disease can strike young plants if they are overwatered and not given enough space to breathe. However over-fertilization will result in luxuriant foliage at the expense of blooms. In wet conditions plant rot can be prevented by allowing adequate airflow between pots.