Antigua

African Marigold

Zone 1b Save Garden

🌱 70d to harvest Bush

Sunlit, velvety blooms arrive in abundance—Antigua African Marigold dazzles with warm, saturated color and a plush, layered textu…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	Jun 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 1st
Harvest Begins	Aug 10th
Harvest Ends	Aug 1st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	70
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Bush
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	75
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most often hits Tagetes erecta (African marigold), and how can I control it?

Look for aphids and spider mites on Tagetes erecta, which show up as distorted new growth, fine stippling, or webbing. Spray plants with a strong jet of water first, then follow with insecticidal soap and repeat every 5–7 days until you see no new damage. If you notice leaf spots or botrytis-like gray growth in humid weather, remove affected leaves and improve airflow with wider spacing and morning watering only at the base.

How often should I water Tagetes erecta during active growth?

During the main growth phase, water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil dry out, which is often about 2–3 times per week in warm weather. Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy—Tagetes erecta performs best with good drainage to prevent root issues and disease flare-ups. After plants are established, reduce frequency slightly and avoid wetting foliage late in the day.

How can I tell when Tagetes erecta (Antigua African marigold) is ready to harvest?

Harvest (or start cutting for bouquets) when flower heads are fully colored and open, with petals firm and not wilting or browning at the edges. Since Tagetes erecta typically takes around 70 days to maturity, begin checking from late in that window and harvest as soon as blooms are at their peak. Cut in the morning and remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continued flowering.

Sunlit, velvety blooms arrive in abundance—Antigua African Marigold dazzles with warm, saturated color and a plush, layered texture that seems to glow even in the brightest beds. Expect sturdy, upright plants that hold their form through the season, producing large, fully double flowers with a satisfying, dense petal richness. Ideal for bold garden display, Antigua shines as a showy centerpiece in borders and mass plantings, delivering long-lasting color from early summer into fall.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

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

Expert Note

For the most compact, double blooms, keep plants in full sun and avoid over-fertilizing with high nitrogen.