Marigolds

Planting marigolds

Start indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost, or sow directly once the soil is warm and frost risk has passed.

Planting details

• Transplant after the last frost
• Spacing: 8 to 12 inches for most bedding varieties
• Seed depth: about 1/4 inch

Growing requirements

Marigolds bloom best in full sun and tolerate a range of soils, including lean ones. Avoid rich, heavily fertilized beds, which favor foliage over flowers.

Harvesting and care

Deadhead spent blooms to keep plants flowering until frost. Let a few heads dry on the plant at season end if you want to save seed.

Common mistakes

• Heavy fertilizing, which grows leaves at the expense of blooms
• Watering overhead late in the day, which can encourage mildew
• Planting in shade, which leads to leggy growth and few flowers

Companion plants

Marigolds are commonly planted along the edges of vegetable beds and near tomatoes and peppers. They still need their own light and airflow to bloom well.