SproutSmart
SproutSmart Intelligent Garden Sowing

Taishan Gold

Family: Asteraceae Flower

Planting Schedule

Add Taishan Gold to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.

Sunlit and unapologetically golden, Taishan Gold blooms with dense, double pom-poms that glow in warm butter-yellow to deep golden-orange, holding their color as the season heats.

The flowers are impressively full and velvety in texture, with a sturdy, upright habit that makes a bold, lasting display in beds and borders. Grow Taishan Gold for showy, drought-tolerant color that shines from early summer through fall, ideal for massing, edging, and vibrant cut-flower arrangements.

Light: Full SunMaturity: 50 DaysHabit: Upright

Botanical illustration of Taishan Gold

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

Crop Dates

MilestoneDate
Start IndoorsDirect Sow
Last FrostApr 25th
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsApr 25th
Harvest BeginsJun 14th
Harvest EndsOct 16th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity50
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 problem is most common on Tagetes erecta (marigold) and how do I treat it?
Watch for aphids and botrytis (gray mold), which show up as distorted tender growth or a gray, fuzzy coating on leaves and stems. Spray aphids off with a strong jet of water and, if needed, use an insecticidal soap, then remove any badly infected foliage to reduce spread. Improve airflow by spacing plants and avoid wetting leaves—Tagetes erecta is especially prone to gray mold when foliage stays damp.
How often should I water Tagetes erecta during the main growing phase (after it’s established)?
During active growth, water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry, then water deeply until excess drains—aim for consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. In full sun, this typically means watering about 1–2 times per week depending on heat and your soil’s drainage. Reduce watering as flowers begin to mature to prevent disease like botrytis.
How can I tell when Tagetes erecta is ready to harvest (for flowers)?
Harvest when the flower heads are fully open and the petals look firm and brightly colored, typically around 50 days from sowing/transplanting to maturity. If the center looks tight and unopened, wait; if petals start to brown or the head begins to collapse, it’s past prime for best color and quality.