French marigolds are a favorite, reliable annual for bright, cheery color - reds, oranges, yellows. Use these pom-pom beauties in edgings, beds, borders, containers, for cuttings and, as believed by many for going back centuries, for deterring unwanted insects in flower and vegetable gardens. Gardeners have also used marigolds as cover crops to combat root-knot nematodes. While we're not going to weigh in on the effectiveness of either practice, we do know that marigolds, herbs and tomatoes look great together and welcome pollinators. Both the flowers and green foliage of French marigolds are aromatic when crushed or brushed. Long a decorative element in religious or ceremonial traditions, marigolds can be used to make DIY marigold garlands and other home decor creations. French marigolds, which are actually native to the Americas, are smaller than African marigolds (also native to the Americas). French margiolds appreciate rich soil with regular watering. Deadheading encourages more flowers.