How Deep to Plant Marigold Seeds

Plant marigold seeds in the garden or start them indoors.

Marigold seeds grow like many other annuals; they need to be covered by soil but not planted too deeply. They need moist, warm soil to germinate and can be directly sowed outdoors or started inside.

Depth

Sow marigold seeds at a depth of two or three times the seed's size. Some seeds need direct sunlight to germinate, but marigold seeds do not. Cover them completely with soil.

Considerations

Since marigolds are not large seeds, and may be difficult to grasp, shake the seed packet to sprinkle the seeds onto the soil.

Time Frame

Sow the marigold seeds after the last killing frost. Germination needs warm soil; optimal soil temperature is 60 degrees Fahrenheit or above. Start seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost to get a head start.

Expert Insight

Try covering the seeds with vermiculite instead of regular garden soil to help the seeds keep the moisture they need to germinate.

References

• Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences: Sowing Annual Seeds
• Arizona Cooperative Extension: Flower Bed -- Annuals
• Alabama Cooperative Extension: Greenhouse Production of Marigolds
• University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Understanding the Seed Packet