Nasturtium
Tropaeolum majus
Marigold
Tagetes
Nasturtium vs Marigold in Containers: Edible Flower Comparison
Compare nasturtium and marigold for container growing. Both are beautiful companion plants with pest-deterrent properties.
Quick Comparison
| Criteria | 🌺Nasturtium | 🌼Marigold | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | easy | easy | Tie |
| Days to Harvest | 50 days | 50 days | Nasturtium |
| Container Size | 6 inch pot | 6 inch pot | Marigold |
| Sunlight | full sun | full sun | - |
| Water Needs | low | moderate | - |
| Yield | Higher | Lower | Nasturtium |
| Beginner-Friendly | Yes | Yes | Tie |
Key Differences
Edibility
Fully edible - flowers, leaves, and seeds.
Flowers edible, not commonly eaten.
Growth Habit
Trailing/climbing or bush. 1-10 feet.
Compact bush. 6-36 inches.
Pest Control
Trap crop - attracts aphids away from crops.
Repels pests with strong scent. Nematode control.
Soil Preference
Poor soil - blooms more when not fertilized.
Average to rich soil for best blooms.
Bloom Period
Continuous from summer to frost.
Continuous from summer to frost.
Container Types
Hanging baskets, window boxes, large pots.
Border containers, upright planters.
Best for Nasturtium
Choose Nasturtium if:
- You want fully edible flowers
- You enjoy peppery salad garnishes
- You want trailing plants for hanging baskets
- You need aphid trap plants
- You love orange and yellow blooms
Best for Marigold
Choose Marigold if:
- You want compact border plants
- You need strong pest deterrent
- You prefer upright growing
- You want cut flowers
- You like golden yellow and orange
Can They Grow Together?
Yes, they can grow together!
Nasturtiums and marigolds are both excellent companion plants! Both deter pests and attract beneficial insects. Plant them around tomatoes, peppers, and other vegetables.
The Bottom Line
Nasturtium
Choose nasturtiums for fully edible peppery flowers, trailing growth for baskets, and as aphid trap plants around vegetables.
Marigold
Choose marigolds for compact upright growth, strong pest repellent properties, and classic golden-orange summer color.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is easier to grow: Nasturtium or Marigold?
Both Nasturtium and Marigold are equally easy to grow in containers with similar care requirements.
Which grows faster: Nasturtium or Marigold?
Nasturtium reaches harvest maturity faster, typically in 50 days compared to 50 days for Marigold.
Can I grow Nasturtium and Marigold together?
Yes! Nasturtiums and marigolds are both excellent companion plants! Both deter pests and attract beneficial insects. Plant them around tomatoes, peppers, and other vegetables.
Which needs less space: Nasturtium or Marigold?
Marigold requires less space with a minimum container size of 6 inch pot, making it better for small balconies and windowsills.
Which produces more: Nasturtium or Marigold?
Nasturtium typically produces more harvest per plant over the growing season, making it better for maximum yield in limited space.
Which is better for beginners: Nasturtium or Marigold?
Both Nasturtium and Marigold are excellent choices for beginners with similar difficulty levels.
What are the main differences between Nasturtium and Marigold?
The key differences include: edibility, growth habit, pest control. See the detailed comparison above for complete differences.
Should I choose Nasturtium or Marigold for my balcony?
Choose nasturtiums for fully edible peppery flowers, trailing growth for baskets, and as aphid trap plants around vegetables. Choose marigolds for compact upright growth, strong pest repellent properties, and classic golden-orange summer color. Consider your space, sunlight, and what you want to grow when making your decision.
Related Plant Guides
Complete Nasturtium Growing Guide
Learn everything about growing Nasturtium in containers.
Complete Marigold Growing Guide
Learn everything about growing Marigold in containers.
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