Question
We live in rural California and my mom uses marigold plants to surround her
garden area to keep away gophers.  She also has 11 cats. I do not have cats only
gophers.  Do you know if marigold flowers actually keep gophers at bay?  Thank
you.

Answer
Carrie, mature marigolds have been known to deter many pests, including rabbits and gophers. Most animals find the smell repugnant. The other great thing about marigolds is that their root system exudes a chemical that is highly effective against nematodes. Nematodes are small organisms that can cause club root, a disease that will eventually gnarl the roots and kill the plant.

Other effective deterrents against gophers are cayenne pepper sprays, garlic, and garlic sprays. I grow garlic liberally around my vegetables and have eliminated many insect and pest problems. They are easy to grow and provide a good harvest in the fall.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike