Marigolds

Overview:

Marigolds are one of the easiest flowers to grow, especially from seed! They come in warm shades of orange, yellow, cream and gold. Their blooms thrive in full sun, and come in tall and compact forms. Beyond their blooms, marigolds have a rich cultural history and play a central role in Day of the Dead celebrations, where their bright flowers are used to honor and remember loved ones. Marigolds are often tucked into containers, borders, vegetable gardens, or cutting beds. These flowers have a distinct smell to them as well, some love it, some not so much. You will have to be the judge!

Types of marigolds:

There are two main categories that marigolds fit into, French and African. Generally speaking, French marigolds are compact plants that typically grow 8–18 inches tall and produce smaller, abundant blooms in shades of yellow, orange, red, and mahogany. African marigolds grow much taller, often reaching 2–4 feet, and are known for their large, pom-pom-like flowers that make a bold statement in garden beds and containers.

Seed starting:

Starting seeds for marigolds is relatively easy. I usually sow 1-2 seeds 1/4" per cell and thin to one per cell after germination. You can also directly sow marigolds into containers or in the ground.

Germination occurs typically after 7-14 days. If growing indoors, seeds typically take 30-45 days from planting to be able to transplant outdoors.

When to plant outdoors:

Marigolds love warmer weather. Plant marigolds outside after your last frost. Marigolds can be planted in early March for blooms in May and June. We like to succession plant marigolds in the fall season. Sow seeds in July, for beautiful blooms come October + November.

Spacing:

Space 9-12” apart for most varieties. Dwarf varieties such as ‘Gnome’ can be spaced 6” apart.

Sun:

Full sun 8+ hours

Flower Support:

Yes! On taller varieties for cut flowers

Pinching:

Yes! pinch taller cut flower varieties for more stems

Fertilizing:

Marigolds are not heavy feeders. We usually get them established with a good well balanced fertilizer.

Favorite varieties:

Coco:

Coco is a classic African marigold defined by its big fluffy blooms. Coco is a great cut flower series that grows every fall. This variety can get upwards of 36-48" tall, so be sure to give them support.

Durango:

Durango is a french marigold, defined by its smaller blooms. The Durango series get about 10-14" tall, which makes them perfect for the container or border garden. We love the 'bee' color as it has a fabulous bicolor of mahogany and orange.

Overview:

Marigolds are a great plant, especially here in our zone 9b cottage garden. Succession plant marigolds for blooms all season. Check out our shop for our favorite marigold seeds. Happy gardening!