Marigold Growing Guide

Tagetes

Marigold

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Any sunny site with good drainage.

Position

Full sun to partial afternoon shade.

Frost tolerant

None. Marigold cannot tolerate cold temperatures.

Feeding

Mix a light application of a balanced organic fertiliser into the soil prior to planting.

Companions

Dwarf types make good edging plants that may deter rabbits. Some varieties are known for their ability to starve out rootknot nematodes when planted the year before and macerated and then ploughed into the soil where the chemicals that affect the nematodes are then released.

Spacing

Single Plants: 20cm (7") each way (minimum)
Rows: 20cm (7") with 20cm (7") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Sow marigolds in late spring, or set them out as bedding plants. Broadcast seed into cultivated soil so that the seeds are about 2 inches (5 cm) apart and one-half inch (1 cm) deep. Thin to 8 inches (20 cm) apart in all directions for dwarf varieties; allow 12 inches (30 cm) between very tall varieties.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

The 'Gem' marigolds (T. tenufolia) bear edible blossoms with a spicy, citrus flavor.

Harvesting

Marigolds make good short-stemmed cut flowers for small bouquets. Don't rush to pull up plants that stop blooming but look healthy, because they will probably come back into bloom.

Troubleshooting

Marigolds have few problems with pests or diseases. Tall varieties may need staking to keep them upright.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Marigold