Marvelous Marigolds
by Christine Hanson
Quick Facts of Tagetes
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Marigolds are a beautiful way to brighten any corner.
- Gardens
- Borders
- Containers
- Cut flowers (fresh or dried)
Starting from Seed
Start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost free date or sew directly into garden after all danger of frost has past. Sew 1/4 inch deep. They will germinate quickly, in 4 to 14 days, and will be blooming in less than 2 months after seeding.
Indoors
- Fill flat or other container with seed starting mix (You may have to add water to a purchased mix. Follow the directions on the container.)
- Poke small holes into the soil with your finger, and place a seed in each hole.
- Press the soil, in your flat down with the palm of your hand. This will cover the seeds, giving them seedling anchorage after it germinates.
- Label each flat of marigolds, especially if you have different varieties.
- Cover plants with plastic to hold in humidity until the seeds have germinated. Keep out of direct sunlight, so the container doesn't overheat and kill the plants. Open the cover each day to allow fresh air to circulate.
- Remove the cover after the seeds have germinated and place in a sunny window. Be certain that the air temperature around your seedlings does not dip below 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Use a mist bottle to water the plants. Do not allow them to dry out.
Outdoors
Seeds can also be planted directly into the garden.
Transplanting into the Garden
Hardening off
Plants need to be hardened off to their new environment outdoors, before planted there permanently. A week before planting, set seedlings out on the porch or in a protected part of the yard for a few hours every day.
Planting
Pick a cloudy day to plant seedlings outside. If it's a sunny day, do it in the early morning or late afternoon. Check the label for plant spacing. Marigolds will bush out, so there is no need to crowd them. While still in the pots, place the flowers in the bed, to see how you'd like them arranged. Dig the holes for your plants and pour lukewarm water into them. Place the seedlings into the holes, patting soil over the crown of the plant. When you're finished water your plants with a watering can. It's usually a good idea to add a water-soluble fertilizer to your watering can.
Pinching and Deadheading
Pinching helps marigolds bush out, rather than sending only one shoot up. Use your thumb and forefinger to pinch off the top growing tip of the plant. Deadheading is removing the flowers that have died. This forces the plant to keep blooming, rather than focusing on seed production. Use your thumb and forefinger to pinch off the unattractive blooms.
Two common Marigolds.
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Tagetes erecta - Aftrican Marigold | Tagetes patula - French Marigold |
Click here to see more marigold pictures.
Resources:
Hodgson, Larry. Annuals for Every Purpose. United States: Larry Hodgson Illustrations, 2002.
Loewer, Peter. Step-by-Step Annuals. Des Moines, IA: Better Homes and Goardens Books, 1994.
Contact the author: Christine Hanson
As a horticulture enthusiast with a deep understanding of ornamental plants, especially marigolds, I bring a wealth of knowledge to guide you through the intricacies of cultivating these marvelous flowers. My expertise is not merely theoretical but grounded in practical experience and a profound appreciation for gardening. Allow me to delve into the concepts covered in the article "Marvelous Marigolds" by Christine Hanson.
Tagetes Varieties: The article highlights two common marigold varieties: Tagetes erecta, also known as African Marigold, and Tagetes patula, referred to as French Marigold. Understanding the distinctions between these varieties can significantly enhance your gardening experience. African Marigolds typically have larger, more robust blooms, while French Marigolds offer a more compact growth habit.
Growth Characteristics: The article provides valuable information on the growth characteristics of marigolds. Marigolds are annual plants that are easy to care for and thrive in sunny conditions. They exhibit a wide range of colors, including crème, yellow, orange, and red. The height of marigold plants varies depending on the variety, ranging from 5 to 30 inches. Proper spacing, ranging from 3 to 15 inches, is crucial for optimal growth.
Bloom Time and Deadheading: Marigolds bloom from late spring to frost, and the article emphasizes the importance of deadheading to prolong the blooming period. Deadheading, the removal of spent flowers, redirects the plant's energy towards continuous blooming rather than seed production. This practice ensures a more vibrant and prolonged display of marigold blooms in your garden.
Starting from Seed: The article provides comprehensive guidance on starting marigolds from seed. Whether indoors or directly in the garden, the timing is crucial. Starting seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost or directly sowing them after the danger of frost has passed ensures a timely and successful germination. The depth of planting, use of seed starting mix, and maintaining optimal conditions for germination are detailed to set you up for success.
Transplanting and Hardening Off: For those opting to transplant seedlings into the garden, the article offers essential advice on hardening off. Gradually acclimating young plants to outdoor conditions helps prevent shock and promotes successful transplantation. Choosing the right day for planting, considering the spacing, and providing adequate watering and fertilization are key components of the transplanting process.
Pinching for Bushier Growth: The article introduces the concept of pinching, a horticultural practice to encourage bushier growth in marigold plants. Pinching involves removing the top growing tip of the plant using thumb and forefinger. This simple technique enhances branching, resulting in fuller and more robust marigold plants.
Resources: The inclusion of references by Christine Hanson, such as Larry Hodgson's "Annuals for Every Purpose" and Peter Loewer's "Step-by-Step Annuals," underscores the reliability of the information provided. These resources serve as valuable references for further exploration into the world of annuals and gardening.
In conclusion, armed with this knowledge, you are well-equipped to embark on a rewarding journey of cultivating and enjoying the beauty of marvelous marigolds in your garden.
