Crop Rotation Group
Miscellaneous
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Soil
Any sunny site with good drainage.
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Position
Full sun to partial afternoon shade.
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Frost tolerant
None. Marigold cannot tolerate cold temperatures.
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Feeding
Mix a light application of a balanced organic fertilizer into the soil prior to planting.
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Companions
Dwarf types make good edging plants that may deter rabbits. Some varieties are known for their ability to starve out rootknot nematodes when planted the year before and macerated and then ploughed into the soil where the chemicals that affect the nematodes are then released.
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Spacing
Single Plants: 7" (20cm) each way (minimum)
Rows: 7" (20cm) with 7" (20cm) row gap (minimum)
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Sow and Plant
Sow marigolds in late spring, or set them out as bedding plants. In climates with long, hot summers, make a second planting in summer for great autumn color. Broadcast seed into cultivated soil so that the seeds are about 2 inches (5 cm) apart and one-half inch (1 cm) deep. Thin to 8 inches (20 cm) apart in all directions for dwarf varieties; allow 12 inches (30 cm) between very tall varieties.
Our Garden Planning Tool can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
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Notes
The 'Gem' marigolds (T. tenufolia) bear edible blossoms with a spicy, citrus flavor.
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Harvesting
Marigolds make good short-stemmed cut flowers for small bouquets. Don't rush to pull up plants that stop blooming but look healthy, because they will probably come back into bloom.
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Troubleshooting
Marigolds have few problems with pests or diseases. Tall varieties may need staking to keep them upright.
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