Marigolds are a popular choice among gardeners due to their vibrant colors and easy cultivation. With over 50 different species, these flowers are classified into three main types: African, French, and signet. African marigolds have large blooms on tall stems, while French marigolds have smaller flowers with a bushy growth habit, and signet marigolds are low-growing plants with delicate foliage and dainty flowers.

Apart from their aesthetic appeal, marigolds also offer several practical benefits for gardeners. These plants produce chemicals known as thiophenes that help repel pests like nematodes from the soil when planted alongside other crops such as tomatoes or peppers. Furthermore, some people believe that the scent of marigold flowers helps deter mosquitoes and flies from outdoor sitting areas.

Key Takeaways

• Marigolds are classified into three main types: African, French, and signet.
• Marigolds produce chemicals that help repel pests like nematodes from the soil.
• The scent of marigold flowers is believed to deter mosquitoes and flies.

Planting

To ensure the successful growth of your marigolds, it is important to choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun. Marigolds can be grown from seed or transplant, so choose the method that works best for you.

If you choose to grow from seed, sow the seeds directly into the soil after the last frost or start them indoors 4-6 weeks earlier. For seedlings, plant them at a depth of about ¼ inch and 6 inches apart. If planting in rows, space each row about a foot apart to allow air circulation around the plants.

Timing is crucial when it comes to planting marigolds. These sturdy flowers thrive in warm weather, so wait until all danger of frost has passed before starting your marigold garden. Typically, this means planting them outside after spring’s final frost date. Marigolds require consistent temperatures of at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit to germinate successfully.

Marigolds are sun-worshippers and need plenty of direct sunlight to grow healthy and strong. Ensure they receive at least six hours of sunshine daily for optimal growth and abundant blooms. Additionally, providing enough light helps prevent leggy growth as insufficient lighting can cause weak stems.

When choosing where to plant your marigolds, consider their mature size. Depending on the variety you choose, marigold plants can grow anywhere from eight inches to three feet tall and spread up to two feet wide. To give each plant ample space for healthy growth and good airflow, leave approximately eight inches between each mature plant.

Whether planting in a bed, pots, or containers, ensure that the soil is well-drained and has a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If planting in containers, use a tray with good drainage and potting soil mixed with sand for better drainage. Avoid overwatering, as marigolds prefer slightly dry soil.

Growing

Planting

To grow marigolds, start by planting seedlings in a location that receives full sun for at least 6 hours a day. Prepare the soil by removing weeds and loosening it with a garden fork or tiller. Dig holes slightly larger than the seedling’s root ball and gently place them in the holes, making sure they are at the same depth as they were in their containers. Seedlings require consistent moisture to grow properly, so water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater as it can lead to root rot. Keep the soil evenly moist, not soggy.

Watering

After transplanting your marigold seedlings into their outdoor beds, continue watering them regularly. Water deeply at ground level, avoiding wetting the leaves as this can promote fungal diseases. As your marigold seedlings grow bigger, you may need to thin them out. This allows air circulation among plants and prevents overcrowding which can lead to disease development. Carefully remove weaker or excess plants by cutting them off at ground level with gardening scissors or pruners. Once your marigold plants reach maturity and start flowering, they will still need regular watering. However, they are moderately drought-tolerant so you won’t need to constantly water them.

Fertilizing

Marigolds do not require a lot of fertilizer, but will benefit from a light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer when planting and again every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.

Fact Sheet

Remember to download our fact sheet below for ideal growing conditions. This reference will provide you with all the information you need to grow healthy and vibrant marigold plants.

Recommended Varieties

With more than 50 varieties of marigolds, it can be overwhelming to choose which one to grow in your garden. However, there are a few recommended varieties that are known for their exceptional beauty and vigour. These varieties offer different sizes, colors, and growth habits while sharing the same resilience and ability to thrive in various growing conditions.

French Marigold

The French Marigold (Tagetes patula) is a popular choice for its compact size and vibrant blooms in shades of yellow, orange, and red. It is a natural pest deterrent due to its strong scent. Two recommended French Marigold varieties are:

• Marigold French, Petite: This delightful variety adds an instant pop of color to any garden. With their compact size and abundance of blooms, these petite marigolds are perfect for borders, containers, and even hanging baskets. Their vibrant flowers range in shades of orange, gold, and yellow, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere wherever they are planted.
• Marigold French, Bolero: One of the most stunning varieties of marigold is the Marigold French, Bolero. With its vibrant orange petals and striking dark brown center, this variety truly stands out in any garden. Not only is it visually appealing, but Bolero also boasts a delightful fragrance that fills the air with its sweet scent. It is a compact grower making it great for borders and containers.

African Marigold

For those looking for a taller variety, the African Marigold (Tagetes erecta) is an excellent option. With its tall stems and large round blooms in shades of gold and orange, it creates a striking focal point in any flower bed or container garden. Additionally, this variety is known for its long-lasting flowers, making it perfect for bouquets or floral arrangements. One recommended African Marigold variety is:

• Marigold African, Crackerjack: This stunning variety dazzles with its vibrant colors and large, showy blooms. This tall marigold can reach heights of up to three feet, making it perfect for adding height and drama to your garden beds and borders. The flowers of Crackerjack come in a rich assortment of hues including bright oranges, deep yellows, and fiery reds, creating a striking display that will catch the eye of any passerby.

Signet Marigold

If you prefer a more delicate-looking marigold variety, then the Signet Marigold (Tagetes tenuifolia) might be just what you need. Unlike other varieties that produce large flowers on single stems, the Signet Marigold produces numerous small flowers on lacy foliage. These dainty blossoms come in shades of gold and lemon-yellow and create a charming carpet-like effect when planted en masse. One recommended Signet Marigold variety is:

• Marigold, Sparky French: Bursting with vibrant colors, this compact and bushy plant is a true eye-catcher in any garden or container. With its distinctive double flowers in shades of orange, yellow, and red, the Sparky French marigold adds a fiery touch to your outdoor space.

Other Varieties

There are many other varieties of marigolds available, including English Marigolds and Pot Marigolds (Calendula). English Marigolds are well-loved for their bright petals and the way they effortlessly elevate any outdoor space. Pot Marigolds, on the other hand, are known for their medicinal properties and are often used in herbal remedies.

One unique variety of African Marigold is the Eskimo White African Marigold. With its large, white flowers and unique texture, it adds an element of elegance to any landscape. This particular cultivar stands out from other marigolds not only for its size but also for its exceptional hardiness.

In conclusion, choosing the right marigold variety for your garden can be a daunting task, but with these recommended varieties, you can’t go wrong. Whether you prefer compact or tall plants, vibrant colors or delicate blossoms, there is a marigold variety that will suit your unique taste and style.

Harvesting and Storing

Marigolds are not only beautiful garden plants, but they can also be harvested and stored for various purposes, including making tea. To ensure that you get the most out of your marigolds, it’s important to harvest them at their peak freshness and store them properly.

Harvesting Marigolds

To harvest marigold flowers for storage, wait until the flower heads are fully open and the petals have a vibrant color before cutting. Use sharp garden shears to snip off the flower stems just above a leaf node or lateral branch, being careful not to damage the petals.

Once harvested, the marigold flowers should be gently rinsed with water to remove any dirt or debris. After rinsing, pat them dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. Next, spread the flowers out on a flat surface and allow them to air dry completely. This process may take several days depending on the humidity levels in your area.

Storing Marigolds

Once the marigold flowers are fully dried, you can store them in an airtight container such as a glass jar or tin. This will help to preserve their color and fragrance.

Overwintering Marigolds

If you want to enjoy marigold blooms year after year, it’s important to overwinter them properly. In colder regions, where temperatures drop below freezing in winter, marigolds won’t survive outdoors. To preserve your plants during this time, dig them up carefully before the first frost hits and pot them in containers filled with well-draining soil. Store these pots indoors in a cool area with plenty of natural light until spring arrives when they can be planted back outside once more.

Using Marigolds as Cut Flowers

Marigolds make for beautiful cut flowers that can brighten up any room or bouquet. To prepare marigold flowers for indoor display, remove any leaves from the bottom half of the stem and cut them at an angle to allow better water absorption. Place them in a vase filled with clean water and change the water every 2-3 days to prolong their freshness. Remember that marigolds have a strong fragrance, so consider placing them in areas where their scent won’t overpower other floral arrangements.

Deadheading and Pruning

Deadheading and pruning marigolds can help to promote bushier growth and encourage more blooms. Deadheading involves removing spent flowers from the plant, while pruning involves cutting back the stems to control the plant’s size and shape.

Stems

Marigold stems can be used for various purposes, including making tea or adding flavor to soups and stews. To use marigold stems, simply snip them off the plant and rinse them thoroughly with water. Once rinsed, you can use them fresh or dry them for later use.

Overall, harvesting and storing marigolds is a simple process that can help you get the most out of these beautiful garden plants. By following these tips, you can enjoy the vibrant colors and soothing properties of marigolds all year round.

Collecting Seeds

To collect marigold seeds, wait until the flowers begin to fade and develop seed heads. These small pods will be a dark brown or black color. Pinch the seed head at its base and gently pull it off of the plant. Place the seed head in a paper bag or envelope to allow it to dry further.

Once the seed head is completely dry, which can take up to two weeks, carefully open it up and shake out the seeds into another container. You may need to use your fingers or tweezers to remove any remaining debris from the seeds.

It’s important to label your container with the date and variety of marigold so you remember what type of flower you are planting next season. Keep in mind that not all marigold varieties will produce viable seeds. If you want guaranteed success, consider purchasing fresh marigold seeds from a reputable supplier instead of harvesting them yourself.

Store your harvested marigold seeds in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to sow them next spring. Properly stored seeds can remain viable for several years.

To summarize:

Step	Instructions
1	Wait until the flowers develop seed heads
2	Pinch the seed head at its base and gently pull it off of the plant
3	Place the seed head in a paper bag or envelope to allow it to dry further
4	Open up the seed head and shake out the seeds into another container
5	Label your container with the date and variety of marigold
6	Store your harvested seeds in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to sow them next spring

By following these simple steps, you can easily collect and store marigold seeds for future planting.

Interesting Facts

Marigolds are more than just beautiful flowers. They have a rich history and symbolism that spans across cultures. Here are some interesting facts about marigolds:

• Marigolds were believed to be sacred by the Aztecs, who used them in religious ceremonies and as offerings for the dead. This connection to death explains the flower’s association with Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, festivities where marigolds are used to decorate altars and graves.

• In Victorian times, marigolds symbolized grief and remembrance. They were often woven into funeral wreaths or placed on graves as tokens of love for deceased loved ones.

• Marigolds are also connected to faithfulness and devotion. In some cultures, they are exchanged as wedding gifts or worn as garlands during marriage ceremonies – signifying lasting love between couples.

• Marigolds come in a variety of colors, including orange, yellow, gold, white, and red. These vibrant hues represent warmth, optimism, and joy.

• Marigolds are part of the Asteraceae family and the genus Tagetes. They are often used as companion plants in vegetable gardens and herb gardens. They are believed to repel pests and attract beneficial insects.

• Some species of marigolds are edible and are used in cooking. Their petals add color and flavor to salads, soups, and stews.

• Marigolds are resilient and can thrive even under adverse conditions. They are symbols of perseverance and strength.

In conclusion, marigolds are much more than just pretty flowers. Their rich history and symbolism make them cherished blooms that hold deep meaning for many people worldwide. Whether you are looking to add color to your garden or convey a special message, marigolds are an excellent choice.

Pest and Diseases:

Marigolds are prone to various pests and diseases that can affect their growth and overall health. In this section, we will discuss some of the most common pests and diseases that marigolds can face and how to prevent them.

Pests:

Aphids

Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of plants, causing stunted growth and deformed flowers. They can be a common pest for marigolds, especially during warmer months. To deter aphids, you can introduce natural predators like ladybugs or spray a mixture of water and dish soap onto the affected plants.

Diseases:

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that often appears as a whitish-gray powdery coating on the leaves and stems of marigolds. It can hinder photosynthesis and weaken the plant’s overall health. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure proper air circulation around your marigolds by spacing them adequately apart when planting. Additionally, avoid overhead watering to minimize moisture accumulation on leaves.

Root Rot

Excessive watering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot in marigold plants. The roots become waterlogged and start to decay, resulting in wilting foliage and yellowing leaves. To prevent root rot, make sure your soil is well-draining by adding organic matter such as compost or peat moss before planting marigolds. Additionally, allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings and avoid overwatering your plants.

Leaf Spot

Marigolds are susceptible to various leaf spot diseases caused by fungi or bacteria. Symptoms include brown spots with yellow halos appearing on the leaves. To prevent leaf spot diseases, avoid overcrowding your plants as it restricts air circulation and increases humidity levels – ideal conditions for pathogens.

Download Our Fact Sheet

As a gardener, it’s important to understand the basic needs of your plants to ensure successful growth and bountiful harvests. To help you keep all the key information at your fingertips, we have created a downloadable Fact Sheet that you can use as a quick reference guide whenever you need to look up the ideal growing conditions for your plants.

Our Fact Sheet provides a quick overview of the care details for your plants. You can refer to it whenever you need to know about the soil type and temperature requirements for your plants. With this guide in hand, you can easily consult it whenever you need reminders about caring for your plants.

The Fact Sheet is available for download in our journal or garden planner. This reference will help you keep track of important information about your plants, and you can easily access it whenever you need it.

Please note that this article may contain some affiliate links. By making a purchase through these links, you are supporting the author and granting them a small commission.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the optimal conditions for watering marigolds?

You should water marigolds when the top inch of soil is dry. Marigolds prefer to be watered deeply and infrequently, rather than receiving frequent shallow watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure the soil has proper drainage.

How long does it typically take for marigolds to bloom after planting seeds?

Marigolds typically bloom 45 to 50 days after planting. However, this can vary depending on the specific variety of marigold and the growing conditions.

In which part of the vegetable garden should marigolds be planted for best results?

Marigolds should be planted in a sunny location with well-draining soil. They can be planted in any part of the vegetable garden, but they are particularly beneficial when planted near vegetables that are susceptible to pests, such as tomatoes and peppers.

Are marigolds considered annual or perennial plants?

Marigolds are considered annual plants, meaning they complete their life cycle in one growing season. However, they readily self-seed and can come back year after year in the same location.

What is the expected height and spread of fully grown marigolds?

The expected height and spread of fully grown marigolds varies depending on the variety. French marigolds typically grow to be 6 to 12 inches tall and 6 to 9 inches wide, while African marigolds can grow to be 1 to 4 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide.

What are the steps to properly harvest marigolds?

To harvest marigolds, cut the flower heads off the plant when they begin to turn brown and dry out. Place them in a paper bag and allow them to dry completely. Once fully dry, shake them around to release the seeds. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to use them.