How to Grow Marigolds

Marigolds are annual flowering plants. Marigold flowers reflect bright summer colors of various yellows, oranges and rusty reds. They bloom from mid-summer to the first frost of fall. They come in a variety of sizes, from miniatures to giants. Marigolds grow wild from the south-west down through Central America as well as in many South American locations. Read on to learn more.

Things You'll Need

• Marigold plants
• Compost
• Garden trowel
• Water
• Seeds

Instructions

1. Look for marigold flats or potted plants at your local garden center in early spring.

2. Locate a planting site having both good draining soil and 6 hours or more of direct sunlight. Add compost to improve poor soil or drainage.

3. Use a garden trowel to loosen up the soil.

4. Place each marigold into a hole dug deep enough to cover its roots and stem base. Look at your label for the type of marigold. Large varieties need about 18 inches between plants and smaller flowers about 5 inches.

5. Back fill and water lightly.

6. Grow from seeds by placing them 1/4 inch below the ground with a shallow soil cover. Water seeds after sowing. Read seed packet for type of marigold and spacing.

7. Remove any fading flowers before they turn to seed. This process, called deadheading, enables the marigold to produce more flowers.

Tips & Warnings

• The African Tagetes Ereta and Jubilee grows 2 to 3 feet tall. A French Tagetes grows less than 18 inches. Plant dwarfs around borders and walkways because they're lower in height. Signet marigolds don't require deadheading.

• Marigolds have few problems with pests or disease. Watch for slugs though, eating during the night or morning. See your local garden center for slug control.

• Avoid over watering.