Marigolds are vibrant annual bedding plants that brighten any garden. They come in various types and sizes and offer colors like yellow, orange, red, mahogany, and even white. Their distinctive scent helps gardeners deter whiteflies from other plants by planting marigolds alongside them.
If you’re wondering how to care for marigold flowers, provide them with full sun, well-drained soil, and regular deadheading to encourage continuous blooming.
Types of Marigold
Marigolds come in several species and divisions, each with many cultivars. Most grow to a moderate height, but their sizes vary widely. Some bedding marigolds stay as short as 4 to 6 inches, while taller varieties can reach up to 48 inches.
The three main types include French marigolds (Tagetes patula), larger African marigolds (Tagetes erecta), and triploids (hybrids of French and African marigolds). Additionally, signet marigolds (Tagetes tenuifolia) feature simple, daisy-like flowers.
How to Plant Marigolds
You can start with French marigolds, which are quickly grown from seed. African marigolds, on the other hand, grow best from young plants since they take longer to flower from seed.
Mix slow-release granular fertilizer (5-10-5) into the planting hole if the soil lacks nutrients. Moisten the soil. Then, sow seeds 1 inch deep and 1 inch apart. Once seedlings emerge, thin them out. Space French and signet marigolds 8 to 10 inches apart, while larger African marigolds need at least 10 to 12 inches.
For transplants, water each plant thoroughly after planting. When growing marigolds in containers, use a soil-based potting mix. Either mix in slow-release fertilizer at planting or water regularly with diluted liquid fertilizer. Space plants properly to prevent overcrowding in containers.
How To Care For Marigold Flowers
Marigold flowers are low-maintenance and rarely attract pests. Many gardeners plant them to deter insects that harm other plants. These flowers bloom almost continuously from summer until frost. To maintain non stop flowering, deadhead flowers regularly. While flowering may slow during peak summer heat, it typically returns in full force as temperatures cool.
For taller African marigold varieties, strip off the lower leaves and plant the stems deeper. This technique strengthens the root system and reduces the need for staking.
Light
Plant marigolds in full sun for maximum flowers and healthy growth. In shady conditions, they become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
Soil
Marigolds thrive in almost any garden soil if it isn’t too acidic. Keep the soil pH level between 6.0 and 7.0 for best results. They don’t require rich, organic soil and often grow better in leaner conditions. Water them during dry spells to keep them healthy.
Water
Water newly planted marigold seeds or seedlings regularly. Ensure the soil doesn’t stay dry for more than a couple of days. In hot, sunny weather, water them daily. Once their roots are established, they become more drought-tolerant after a few weeks. However, for the best blooms, continue watering them weekly.
Temperature and Humidity
Marigolds love to live in warm climates. While they may slow down during peak summer heat, they resume full blooming as temperatures cool in late summer and fall.
They tolerate various humidity levels but can develop powdery mildew in damp or humid conditions. To prevent this, plant them in full sun and allow enough space for proper airflow. As native plants of Mexico, marigolds prefer relatively dry air.
Fertilizer
Marigolds don’t need extra fertilizer unless the soil is extremely poor. To keep them blooming, deadhead flowers regularly.
How to Deadhead Marigolds
Deadheading marigolds involves removing faded flowers by pinching off the flower head. This simple practice encourages the plant to produce more blooms instead of using energy to form seeds, extending the flowering season and keeping the plant fresh.
To deadhead marigolds, pinch or cut the stem back to the nearest set of leaves as soon as a blossom starts to fade. While deadheading, consider fertilizing as well. Annuals like marigolds are heavy feeders and respond well to added nutrients.
FAQs
Where Do Marigolds Grow Best?
Marigolds thrive in full sun and need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They prefer well-drained, moderately fertile soil but adapt well to poor soil conditions. Resilience to heat, humidity, and drought makes them suitable for various climates. In extremely hot summers, light afternoon shade helps extend their blooming period.
Why Are Marigolds Good for the Garden?
- Their strong scent deters aphids, nematodes, and whiteflies.
- They draw pollinators like bees and butterflies, along with predatory insects such as hoverflies and ladybugs that control pests.
- Certain marigold species help reduce soil-borne nematodes, enhancing overall soil quality.
When Do Marigolds Bloom?
Marigolds bloom from late spring through fall. With proper care, they continue flowering until the first frost in late fall.
