Marigold / Tagetes

Marigold Description

Even though the names French Marigold and African Marigold are very common marigolds are actually native to the Americas. These attractive flowers are a favourite source for gardeners of yellows and orange. The fact that Tagetes are very easy to grown also makes them a garden favourite.

Marigolds also make good cutting flowers and are also popular with florists. The contrast between the dark green foliage and the vibrant colours of the blooms can be very striking. The name marigold is derived from 'Mary's Gold' and the blossoms are often associated with Christian tales and lore.

Cultivation of Marigold Plants

Marigold seeds should be sown under glass in early spring to mid spring maintaining a temperature of 18 degrees Celsius.

Following germination plants that are large enough to be handled should be pricked out into a cold frame in suitable potting compost. The young plants should be hardened off before planting out in late spring and early summer.

The plants should be placed in their permanent flowering position approximately 30cm apart from each other and up to 45cm for the larger varieties.

The site chosen for permanent planting should be sunny but Marigolds do well in most types of soil. Deadhead through the flowering season.

Marigold Pests and Diseases

Marigold, or tagetes, can be susceptible to attack from slugs and snails that eat the plants. Grey mould can affect the flower heads and foot rot can cause total plant collapse.