Plants for kids - marigolds (2024)

Marigolds can also be sown in the vegetable garden as an edible flower

Growing Tips

Growing conditions

Marigolds like to grow in well-drained soil in full sun.

When to grow

Sow from March to May and they will flower from summer to autumn.

What you need

A packet of Calendula seeds (varieties that can be sown from March include ‘Fiesta Gitana’, ‘Daisy Mixed’, ‘Greenheart Orange’ and ‘Lemon Zest’)
Gardening gloves
Rake
Trowel
Plant label

How to grow

Marigolds can be sown straight in the ground where they are going to flower, so make sure the soil you sow is weed free by using a trowel to remove the weeds.
Rake the soil to a fine tilth (a fine, crumbly texture) and make some drills 12mm deep. The rows should be spaced about 30cm apart. If you made a measuring stick from last month’s activities you could use this to help you.
Sprinkle the seed in carefully and cover them up with soil. If the plants are crowded as they grow, thin them out to about 30 cm apart.
The petals from marigolds are edible and can be added to salads – why don’t you try them?

Get involved

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.

As a seasoned gardening expert and enthusiast, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to guide you through the intricacies of cultivating marigolds, not only for their vibrant aesthetics but also as an edible addition to your vegetable garden. My expertise is grounded in practical application and a deep understanding of horticulture.

Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article:

Marigold Species: Calendula officinalis
- The scientific name, Calendula officinalis, indicates a specific species of marigold discussed in the article. Recognizing the scientific name is crucial for selecting the right seeds and understanding the plant's characteristics.
Sowing Time: Spring Planting
- The article emphasizes sowing marigold seeds in spring. This timing aligns with the natural growth cycle, allowing the flowers to bloom from summer to autumn. This seasonal approach is vital for optimal growth.
Varieties of Marigold Seeds: ‘Fiesta Gitana,’ ‘Daisy Mixed,’ ‘Greenheart Orange,’ and ‘Lemon Zest’
- The recommended varieties for spring planting include ‘Fiesta Gitana,’ ‘Daisy Mixed,’ ‘Greenheart Orange,’ and ‘Lemon Zest.’ Each variety may exhibit unique colors and characteristics, adding diversity to your garden.
Growing Conditions: Well-Drained Soil and Full Sun
- Marigolds thrive in well-drained soil and require full sun exposure. Ensuring proper soil conditions and sunlight is essential for the healthy growth of these flowers.
Planting Process: Sowing Directly in the Ground
- The article suggests sowing marigold seeds directly in the ground where they will flower. It advises preparing the soil by removing weeds, creating fine tilth, and making 12mm deep drills. Proper spacing, around 30cm apart, is recommended for optimal growth.
Edible Petals: Culinary Use of Marigolds
- One intriguing aspect highlighted in the article is the edibility of marigold petals. The suggestion to add them to salads provides a unique culinary dimension to gardening. It's a delightful way to explore the multifunctional aspects of marigolds.
Gardening Tools: Trowel, Rake, and Plant Label
- The article lists essential gardening tools for marigold cultivation, including a trowel for weeding and creating drills, a rake for soil preparation, and a plant label for organization.
Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)
- The article mentions the Royal Horticultural Society as the UK's leading gardening charity. It emphasizes their mission to enrich lives through plants, promoting greener and more beautiful surroundings.

By incorporating these concepts into your marigold cultivation practices, you can enhance your gardening skills and enjoy the beauty and versatility of this vibrant flower in both visual and culinary aspects.