SproutSmart
SproutSmart™ Intelligent Garden Sowing

Crackerjack

Family: Asteraceae Flower
Zone 6b Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add Crackerjack to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.

Sun-warmed, double blooms of Crackerjack burst in bold, saturated golds and deep amber tones, with a crisp, ruffled texture that seems to glow even in full sun.

Each flower forms a sturdy, upright head that holds its shape beautifully—ideal for fresh bouquets and long-lasting cut arrangements. Grow Crackerjack for a showy, dependable display that brings instant color to beds, borders, and sunny containers from early summer through fall.

Light: Full SunMaturity: 70 DaysHabit: Upright

Botanical illustration of Crackerjack

Planting schedules and alerts are optimized for Columbus (Zone 6b).

Crop Dates

MilestoneDate
Start IndoorsDirect Sow
Last FrostApr 25th
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsApr 25th
Harvest BeginsJul 4th
Harvest EndsOct 16th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity70
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitUpright
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)70
Min Soil Temp (°F)60
Min Night Temp (°F)50
Harden Off (days)Not Required

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects African marigold (Tagetes erecta), and how can I treat it?
A common issue is powdery mildew on Tagetes erecta, showing as a white, powdery coating on leaves during warm, humid spells. Remove and discard the worst leaves, then improve airflow by spacing plants and watering at the soil line instead of overhead. If it’s spreading, treat with a labeled fungicide that’s approved for powdery mildew on ornamental flowers and reapply as directed on the label.
How often should I water Tagetes erecta during its main growing phase?
During the main growing phase, keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy—aim for watering when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry. Water deeply so moisture reaches the root zone, typically about once every 5–7 days in warm weather, then adjust for rainfall and soil type. Consistently wet conditions promote root issues and leaf disease, so avoid frequent light watering.
How do I know when Tagetes erecta (African marigold) ‘Crackerjack’ is ready to harvest?
Harvest it when the flower heads are fully formed and open for the first time, which for Tagetes erecta is typically around 70 days from seed. Choose blooms that show vibrant, firm petals and have good color with no fading centers. For longest vase life, cut early in the morning and snip the stem just above a healthy leaf node to encourage side branching.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Crackerjack in Zone 6b typically begins around 2026-04-25. Wait until soil reaches at least 60°F before transplanting Crackerjack.

Garden Alerts

In Zone 6b, the average last spring frost is around April 25. Watch soil temperature before transplanting Crackerjack.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Crackerjack in Zone 6b typically begins around 2026-04-25. Wait until soil reaches at least 60°F before transplanting Crackerjack.

Garden Alerts

In Zone 6b, the average last spring frost is around April 25. Watch soil temperature before transplanting Crackerjack.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

Sow after all danger of frost and keep moisture even until seedlings establish, then water less once plants are actively growing to reduce leggy growth.