Marigold Root Extract
 
A New Generation Insecticide: Nematicide
Botanical Source: Tagetes erecta L.
Plant Part Used: Root
Active Ingredient: Alpha-terthienyl
Other Name: Alpha-Terthienyl; 2, 5-Di(2-thienyl)thiophene, 2, 2': 5', 2''-Terthiophene, Terthienyl
 
Description:
Marigold grows 18-30 in (46-76 cm) tall. The plant is bushy with many smooth, upright, unbranched stems. The leaves are linear to oblong, about 3 in (7.6 cm) long, and shiny medium green, not blue-green as in French tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus var. Sativa). In late summer it bears clusters of small yellow flower heads on the ends of the stems. The flower heads are about 0.5 in (1.3 cm) across and have 3-5 golden-yellow ray florets. The flowers are hermaphroditic (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by insects.
 
Functions:
KINGHERBS' Marigold Root Extract is used as a new generation insecticide, fungicides, and nematocides. Tagetes has insecticidal componentsin its leaves, fowers, and roots. Marigold roots contain the light-sensitive compound alpha terthienyl, which can suppress nematode populations and improve the growth of plants like tobacco and tomatoes.
A phototoxin extracted from marigolds, alpha-terthienyl, was shown to be extremely insecticidal against mosquitoes.