How to Grow Marigold

A year-round flower for the home garden across the warmer US.

Marigold is a rewarding year-round crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

In frost-free regions marigold can be grown almost year-round. Elsewhere, plant in the milder months on either side of summer. See your region on the marigold page for exact timing.

Varieties

• French Marigold, Compact, great for borders/companions (Botanical Interests)
• African (American) Marigold, Tall, large blooms (Burpee)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 25 cm (10 in) between plants.
• Sowing: barely cover the seed.
• Water: roughly 3 L per plant every 2 days in hot weather.
• Containers: grows well in a pot of 20cm+.

Pests & problems

Watch for Spider mite. In humid regions, Powdery mildew can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Marigold is usually ready to harvest in roughly 7 weeks. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant marigold where you garden.

See also: Marigold in the plant library →

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