Marigolds are a festive addition to the vegetable garden, flower beds and fresh floral arrangements. Favored by many organic gardeners, marigolds repel pests that can damage green beans, squash, potatoes, tomatoes and other crops. Easy to grow from seed, marigolds can be started indoors and transplanted to flower beds and vegetable gardens.
Marigold Seeds for Sale from Gurney's
With our Gardening Guarantee, you can trust that we provide high-quality marigold seeds. Marigolds are known for their bright, cheerful blooms and natural pest-repelling properties. They are an excellent addition to vegetable gardens, flower beds, and container plantings.
How to Save Marigold Seeds
To save marigold seeds, allow the flower heads to dry on the plant until the petals turn brown and the seed pods are dry and brittle. Snip off the dried flower heads and remove the seeds, which are long and slender with a dark and light end. Store them in an airtight bag or glass container in a cool, dry place. Properly stored marigold seeds remain viable for up to 3 years.
How to Plant Marigold Seeds
Marigolds grow best when directly sown outdoors but can also be started indoors for earlier blooms.
- Planting Depth: Sow seeds at a depth of ¼ inch.
- Spacing: Space seeds 6-12 inches apart, depending on the variety.
- Water: Water gently after planting to ensure even soil contact without washing seeds away.
When to Start Marigold Seeds
Direct sow marigold seeds after the last frost when soil temperatures reach at least 65°F (18°C). To extend the blooming period, plant seeds in succession every 3-4 weeks through early summer.
HHow Long Does It Take for Marigold Seeds to Germinate?
Marigold seeds typically germinate within 4-7 days in warm soil. Keeping the soil evenly moist speeds up germination.
How to Grow Marigold Plants
To grow marigolds successfully:
- Planting: Direct sow or transplant seedlings into full sun with well-drained soil.
- Watering: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Marigolds tolerate drought but bloom best with regular watering.
- Support: Compact varieties do not need support, but taller types may benefit from staking in windy areas. Browse our selection of plant supports for your marigolds.
- Fertilizing: Apply a light application of balanced fertilizer or compost at planting. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes leaves over flowers.
- Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season.
Marigolds thrive in 6-8 hours of full sun daily and bloom from summer until frost. With their fast-growing nature, flowers often appear within 50-60 days after planting.
Are Marigolds Easy to Grow?
Marigolds are ideal for beginner gardeners since they are one of the easiest flowers to grow. They require minimal care, thrive in poor soil, and deter common garden pests like aphids and nematodes when planted with companion plants, making them a great companion plant for vegetables.
Common Pests and Issues with Marigolds
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can be washed off with a strong stream of water or treated with insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: Causes yellowing leaves and fine webbing. Spray with water or use neem oil if infestations persist.
- Powdery Mildew: Can occur in humid conditions. Ensure proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
- Slugs & Snails: These pests feed on young marigold seedlings. Use organic deterrents like crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth.
With regular deadheading and occasional watering, marigolds will remain a vibrant, low-maintenance addition to your garden all season long.
