Pole Bean + Marigold

Pole beans and marigolds are a well-established interplanting combination in American home gardens, valued primarily for marigold's ability to deter Mexican bean beetle (Epilachna varivestis). French marigolds (Tagetes patula) are most commonly used; avoid African marigold varieties, which grow tall enough to shade young bean plants.

Space marigolds at the base of bean poles or along row edges, roughly 12 to 18 inches from the bean stems, so they don't compete for the same root zone. Plant both at or just after last frost; marigolds can go in a week earlier than beans if starting from transplant. Both tolerate similar soil conditions: well-drained, moderately fertile ground with a pH near 6.5.

The benefit is most relevant where Mexican bean beetle pressure is moderate to high, which includes much of the eastern and central US. In regions where that pest is rare, the pairing is still harmless but the functional gain is limited. Marigolds also attract pollinators, which doesn't benefit beans directly but supports the broader garden.