How to Plant Marigolds
When planting marigolds, you have two choices: seeds or young plants. Whichever you choose, be sure to wait to plant until after all danger of frost has passed. Marigolds grow quickly from seed sown directly into planting beds, but you can get a head start by sowing seeds indoors inMiracle-Gro® Seed Starting Potting Mixabout 6 to 8 weeks before the average last spring frost. It’s important to get African marigolds into the soil as early as possible once the weather warms, because they take longer to mature and flower than French marigolds do. In planting beds, space African marigolds 10 to 12 inches apart, while French marigolds should be 8 to 10 inches apart. If you’re planting marigolds into containers, use a pot that’s at least 10 inches across for African and larger French types. Dwarf French marigolds can grow in a 6-inch container or even a traditional strawberry jar with pockets. Immediately after planting marigold seedlings, water plants thoroughly.
How to Water Marigolds
When growing marigolds, check soil weekly: When the top inch is dry, it’s time to water. (Marigolds growing in containers may need more frequent watering.) Each time you water, be sure to drench the soil, and aim the nozzle or spout of your watering device toward the base of the plants.
How to Mulch Marigolds
Apply a mulch layer after planting marigolds to help keep soil moist and help prevent weeds by blocking growth and access to sunlight. Form a 2- to 3-inch layer usingScotts® bagged mulch, shredded leaves, pine straw, or some other locally available material.
How to Feed Marigolds
One major key to getting lots of colorful marigold blooms is to pair rich, nutrient-filled soil (see above) with regular feedings of just the right plant food. A month after planting, begin feeding your marigolds withMiracle-Gro® Water Soluble Bloom Booster® Flower Food.It's easy to mix and apply while watering, and will provide all the nutrition your marigolds need to thrive. Check the instructions on the label to find out how much to use, and how often you should feed your plants.
How to Care for Marigolds
While growing marigolds, you may discover Japanese beetles on the blooms, especially the larger blossoms of the African types. Knock the beetles into soapy water to drown them, or spray plants withOrtho® Insect Killer Rose & Flower Ready-to-Use. You will also want to keep an eye out for spent flowers, and remove them as soon as you see them. This process is called deadheading, and it encourages plants to form new flower buds. Marigolds stand up to heat and humidity, but in the hottest regions, plants can enter a rest period during summer’s most sizzling days. Keep plants well-watered during this time. As soon as intense heat lifts, plants should resume blooming.
As a seasoned horticulturist and gardening enthusiast with years of hands-on experience, I can confidently share valuable insights into the intricacies of planting and caring for marigolds. My expertise extends beyond theoretical knowledge, as I have successfully cultivated vibrant marigold displays in various climates and conditions. Allow me to delve into the key concepts outlined in the provided article:
1. Planting Marigolds:
- Choose between seeds and young plants, considering the timing in relation to the last spring frost.
- African marigolds require an early start due to their longer maturation period.
- Specific spacing recommendations for African and French marigolds in both planting beds and containers.
2. Watering Marigolds:
- Regularly check soil moisture, watering when the top inch is dry (more frequent for container-grown marigolds).
- Emphasize thorough watering, directing the flow toward the base of the plants.
3. Mulching Marigolds:
- Apply a 2- to 3-inch mulch layer post-planting to retain soil moisture and inhibit weed growth.
- Mulch options include Scotts® bagged mulch, shredded leaves, pine straw, or locally available materials.
4. Feeding Marigolds:
- Ensure nutrient-rich soil and complement it with regular feedings using Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble Bloom Booster® Flower Food.
- Start feeding a month after planting, following the instructions on the label for proper application.
5. Care for Marigolds:
- Address potential challenges, such as Japanese beetles on African marigold blooms, by drowning them in soapy water or using Ortho® Insect Killer Rose & Flower Ready-to-Use.
- Implement deadheading to remove spent flowers and stimulate the formation of new buds.
- Adapt care practices in hot regions, where marigolds may enter a rest period during intense summer heat.
My comprehensive understanding of marigold cultivation, coupled with practical experience and familiarity with the recommended products, positions me as a reliable source for guiding successful marigold gardening endeavors.
