Big Duck Orange Marigold Seed

Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)

• Timing: Sow marigold seeds outdoors in late spring, after the last frost date, when soil temperatures are consistently above 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Marigolds thrive in warm weather and do not tolerate frost.
• Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Marigolds grow well in sandy, loamy, or clay soils, provided drainage is adequate.
• Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and incorporate compost to improve fertility. Marigolds prefer soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5 but are tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions.
• Planting Seeds:
  • Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 6-12 inches apart, depending on the variety.
  • Thin seedlings to maintain proper spacing once they are a few inches tall.
• Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist until seeds germinate, which typically takes 7-14 days. Once established, marigolds are drought-tolerant but benefit from regular watering.

Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)

• Timing: Start marigold seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date.
• Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
• Planting:
  • Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, placing 1-2 seeds per cell or pot.
  • Cover lightly with soil and mist gently to keep the soil evenly moist.
• Germination:
  • Maintain a temperature of 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal germination.
  • Expect seedlings to emerge within 7-14 days.
• Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 65 degrees Fahrenheit and plants have at least 2-3 sets of true leaves. Space plants 6-12 inches apart, depending on the variety.

General Care Tips for Marigolds

• Sunlight: Provide full sun for best growth. Marigolds require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily but can tolerate partial shade in hotter climates.
• Watering: Water regularly during the growing season, especially in dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as marigolds prefer well-drained soil.
• Fertilizing: Marigolds do not require heavy fertilization. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time, and avoid excessive nitrogen, which can reduce flowering.
• Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Prune leggy plants to maintain a compact shape.
• Pest and Disease Control: Marigolds are relatively pest-resistant and can repel harmful insects. Proper spacing ensures good airflow, reducing the risk of fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
• Harvesting:
  • For Flowers: Harvest flowers as they open fully for decorative or culinary use. Snip stems just above a leaf node to encourage regrowth.
  • For Seeds: Allow flower heads to dry on the plant. Collect seeds when the heads turn brown and dry completely.
• Storage: Store dried seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to a year. Fresh flowers should be used immediately, while dried petals can be stored for teas or crafts.