Marigolds - Key Growing Information

A bouquet of marigolds, workhorse of the cut-flower garden, also prized for their allelopathic qualities.
DAYS TO GERMINATION: 4-7 days at 75-80°F (24-27°C).

SOWING: Transplant: Sow 4-6 weeks before last frost. For flowering packs sow 8 weeks before desired bloom time. Lightly cover the seed. Keep soil surface moist until emergence. Transplant to cell packs
or larger containers when true leaves appear. Harden off and transplant outside when the danger of frost has passed. Direct seed: After last frost, sow 1/4" deep. Thin when true leaves appear.

NOTES: High temperatures can cause plants to stall, and temporarily decline in growth and bloom.
Deadhead regularly to increase blooms.
Pinch to make the plants bushier.

LIGHT PREFERENCE: Sun.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Average soil. Feed moderately.

PLANT SPACING: 8-18". French Marigold: 8-12". Gem Marigold: 12". African Marigold: 12-18".

HARDINESS ZONES: Annual.

HARVEST: Flowers are fully open but still have tight centers.

USES: Beds, borders, mass plantings, containers, and window boxes. Cut flower ('Giant' series). Edible flower. Bedding plant ('Durango' and 'Queen Sophia').

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Tagetes spp.