Marigold

Zone 13a Save Garden

🌱 50d to harvest Clumping

Sun-warmed and richly aromatic, French marigold ‘Marigold’ blooms with velvety, layered petals that glow in bright, saturated ton…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Dec 4th
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jan 1st
Harvest Begins	Feb 20th
Harvest Ends	—

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	50
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Clumping
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Surface
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	7

Recommended Companions

Pluto Basil

Bianca Di Maggio Onion

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most often affects Tagetes patula (French marigold), and how can I treat it?

The most common problem is powdery mildew, which shows up as a white, powdery coating on leaves during warm, humid periods. Improve airflow by spacing plants and watering at the base, then remove heavily affected leaves. If needed, spray with an all-in-one fungicide labeled for powdery mildew on ornamentals and repeat as directed until new growth is clean.

How often should I water Tagetes patula during the main growing phase?

Keep soil consistently lightly moist while plants are establishing, usually watering whenever the top 1 inch of soil feels dry. Once Tagetes patula is actively growing, water deeply about 1–2 times per week, increasing to more frequent watering during hot weather. Avoid soggy soil—marigolds in wet, poorly drained beds are more prone to mildew.

How do I know when Tagetes patula is ready to harvest?

Tagetes patula is typically ready for first harvest around 50 days after sowing when flower heads are fully formed and brightly colored. For cutting, pick blooms in the morning when petals are crisp and centers are developed; deadhead soon after flowering to encourage more buds. If you’re collecting seed, leave some flower heads on the plant until the heads dry and the seeds are dark and firm before harvesting.

Sun-warmed and richly aromatic, French marigold ‘Marigold’ blooms with velvety, layered petals that glow in bright, saturated tones and hold their color through heat. The flower’s texture is plush and full, with an upright, tidy habit that makes each bloom feel like a little bouquet in the garden. Ideal for edging and beds, ‘Marigold’ shines as a vivid, long-lasting ornamental—an easy favorite for adding bold, Aster-like charm all season long.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

Sow lightly (or press seeds into the surface), keep evenly moist until germination, then transplant only after nights are reliably warm for best, nonstop flowering.