Approx 20 healthy seeds
Yellow and golden colours
Marigolds: A Burst of Sunshine
Description:
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) are cheerful annual flowers known for their vibrant hues of gold, orange, and yellow. They feature dense, bushy foliage and come in various sizes, from petite French marigolds to towering African varieties. Their flowers, resembling daisies, bloom profusely throughout the growing season, adding a splash of color to gardens, borders, and containers.
Sowing Season:
February, March, April and October, November
Soil Preparation:
Marigolds thrive in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of 6-8 inches and incorporating organic matter such as compost to improve fertility and drainage.
Making Seedlings:
Sow marigold seeds ¼ inch deep in seed trays or small pots filled with seed-starting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Place the trays/pots in a warm, sunny location or under grow lights. Once seedlings have developed 2-3 true leaves, transplant them into larger containers or directly into the garden, spacing them according to the variety’s mature size.
Water and Care:
Water marigolds regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid overhead watering to prevent foliage diseases. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. Pinch off spent flowers (deadheading) regularly to encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding, which can lead to overcrowding.
Deadheading for Prolonged Flowering:
To deadhead marigolds, simply pinch or snip off faded blooms along with the stem just above the nearest set of leaves. This encourages the plant to produce more flowers instead of directing energy towards seed production. Deadheading also maintains a tidy appearance and prevents the plant from becoming leggy.
Saving Seeds:
To save marigold seeds, allow a few healthy flowers to mature and form seed heads towards the end of the growing season. Once the seed heads have dried on the plant, remove them and collect the seeds. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place in labeled envelopes or containers for planting in the next growing season.
Interesting Facts:
1. Marigolds are often planted alongside vegetables such as tomatoes and peppers to repel pests like nematodes and whiteflies, making them a valuable companion plant in organic gardening.
2. In addition to their pest-repellent properties, marigolds have been used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
3. The strong, pungent scent of marigold foliage is said to deter deer and rabbits from munching on garden plants, making them a popular choice for deer-resistant landscaping.
4. Marigolds are not only garden favorites but also feature prominently in cultural celebrations and rituals around the world, from Mexico’s Day of the Dead to festivals in sub continent.
