Question: What is this wood at the end of a barrel?

People plant marigolds between their rows of vegetables because insects go for them first. It might be so for woods and borers.

Hi Jeff,

People plant marigold to deter nematodes from their gardens. Research has shown that marigolds give off a chemical that repel nematodes. Nematodes are a small worm like creature that feeds on plant roots.

Nematodes may dislike marigolds, but snails love 'em!

John

Thank you, both Tom and John, for the adjustments to my understanding! (I will admit that it has been a while since my last garden and, at that time, I was learning, not leading.)

Tonnellerie Sylvain are one of our customers and since I had them on the phone for something else, I asked them about the question raised on this thread.

They replied that the wicker on the ends of barrels is for esthetic purposes only and serves no purpose other purpose whatsoever these days.
Such barrels account for less than 10% of Sylvain's production and are purchased exclusively by famous châteaux who receive many visitors.
Only they can afford this traditional touch that has no practical use.

In fact, the wicker is a nuisance on some export markets for reasons of hygiene (the person I spoke to mentioned Australia).

Best regards,
Alex R.

Many thanks, Alex!!

Nice to learn that the money paid for the wines of the top chateaux is being put to good use