Marigold Burning Embers

Marigolds are incredibly easy-going and reliable under a wide range of growing conditions. Once planted, marigolds grow rapidly with no fuss. Most thrive in full sun, taking hot, sunny exposures in stride. Marigolds can even handle the reflected heat and light of paved surfaces as long as they get regular moisture. However, marigolds will tolerate up to 20% shade if there is bright light the rest of the day.

Germination Instructions
Sow indoors. Surface sow onto seed compost which is moist but well-drained. Only just cover with soil. Propagate at 21-24°C or put in a warm place. Light is required for germination. Germination takes 0-7 days. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed. Space at 20-25cm. Can be sown directly from May with 25cm spacing, keep moist until germinated.

Growing Instructions
Easy to grow in any well-drained garden soil in full sun. Do not feed.

Soil
Marigolds are not at all fussy about soil, accepting poor to average soil without complaint as long as it is not constantly soggy. In fact, marigolds bloom better and more often in poorer soil. Too rich a diet stimulates lush foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Cultivation Instructions
Cut flowers regularly to encourage growth and to prolong flowering window or deadhead.

When to sow:
Sow under cover or indoors: February, March, April
Direct Sow/Plant outdoors: May and June
Flowers/Harvest: June - October

Marigold Harvesting Tips
Marigold flowers: Marigolds make excellent cut flowers for both live and dried arrangements. For live bouquets, cut newly opened blooms early in the morning and immediately set the stems in a jar of warm water. Later, strip the stems of lower leaves that might foul the water and arrange the flowers in a vase with fresh water. Marigolds will last up to a week or even longer if you add some floral preservative to the vase water.

Marigolds are also great for dried arrangements and floral crafts. Cut perfect blossoms at their peak, remove foliage from the stems and hang upside down in a warm, dry place until dry. The flowers will shrink a bit, but their color will remain strong. Insert wire into the marigold stems if needed for support in an arrangement.

Read more frequently asked questions about growing Marigold seeds