How Far Apart to Plant Marigolds: Optimal Spacing Guide
How Far Apart to Plant Marigolds?
To plant marigolds, whether from seeds or young plants, it is recommended to wait until after the danger of frost has passed.
If sowing seeds indoors, start about 6 to 8 weeks before the average last spring frost.
African marigolds should be spaced 10 to 12 inches apart in planting beds, while French marigolds should be 8 to 10 inches apart.
If planting in containers, use a pot that is at least 10 inches across for African marigolds and larger French types.
Dwarf French marigolds can grow in a 6-inch container.
Water marigolds when the top inch of soil is dry and provide a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch after planting.
Regular feedings with plant food, such as Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble Bloom Booster® Flower Food, are important for vibrant blooms.
Keep plants well-watered and remove spent flowers to encourage new buds.
During intense heat, marigolds may enter a rest period but should resume blooming once the heat lifts.
Key Points:
- Wait until after the danger of frost has passed to plant marigolds
- Start sowing marigold seeds indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last spring frost
- African marigolds should be spaced 10 to 12 inches apart, while French marigolds should be 8 to 10 inches apart in planting beds
- Use a pot that is at least 10 inches across for African marigolds in containers, and a 6-inch container for dwarf French marigolds
- Water marigolds when the top inch of soil is dry and provide a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch after planting
- Regular feedings with plant food are important for vibrant blooms; remove spent flowers and keep plants well-watered
Did You Know?
1. The marigold plant is known for its ability to repel pests, and interestingly, this property extends even to the soil surrounding it. Planting marigolds around your garden can help to deter harmful nematodes in the soil, effectively protecting your other plants from damage.
2. Marigold flowers are not just visually appealing; they have culinary uses as well. In many cultures, marigold petals are used as a natural food coloring, adding a vibrant yellow or orange hue to various dishes, including soups, rice dishes, and even desserts.
3. While marigolds are typically grown for their vibrant flowers, some varieties, like the Mexican tarragon marigold (Tagetes lucida), have leaves that are prized as a culinary herb. These leaves have a distinct anise-like flavor and are used as a substitute for tarragon in cooking.
4. Marigolds have been historically associated with various cultural and religious beliefs. In Mexico, marigolds are a significant part of the Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) celebrations, where they are used to decorate altars and graves as a way to guide the spirits of the departed back to the earthly realm.
5. In addition to their pest-repellent qualities, marigolds have also been used for their medicinal properties. The flowers and leaves of certain marigold species, such as Calendula officinalis, are well-known for their anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, making them a popular ingredient in ointments and creams for minor skin irritations.
Planting Marigolds: Seeds Or Young Plants?
When planting marigolds, you have two options: seeds or young plants. The decision may depend on your preference, time constraints, and the availability of supplies.
If you choose to start from seeds, it is important to wait until after all danger of frost has passed. This typically means waiting until the spring season is well underway. For a head start, you can sow the marigold seeds indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the average last spring frost. This early indoor sowing allows the seeds to germinate and develop into young plants before transplanting them outdoors.
It is essential to note that African marigolds take longer to mature and flower compared to French marigolds. Thus, you should consider the differences in growth rates when deciding which variety to plant.
- Consider your preference, time constraints, and availability of supplies when choosing between seeds and young plants.
- Wait until after the last spring frost to start planting marigolds from seeds.
- To get a head start, sow marigold seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the average last spring frost.
- African marigolds take longer to mature and flower compared to French marigolds.
Planting Marigold Seeds Indoors: Giving Them A Head Start
If you want to start marigolds from seeds indoors, here are some guidelines for successful growth:
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Choose a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for starting seeds. This will provide the right nutrients and drainage for the seeds to germinate.
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Fill a tray or individual containers with the potting mix, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Moisten the mix gently with water, making sure it is not soaking wet.
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Sow the marigold seeds on the surface of the potting mix. Try to space them out evenly, but don’t worry about burying them too deeply.
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Cover the seeds lightly with a thin layer of potting mix. This will protect the seeds and provide them with enough darkness to germinate.
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Mist the surface of the potting mix with water. This will ensure good contact between the seeds and the soil, aiding in germination.
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Place the tray or containers in a warm area, ideally around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Ensure that the area receives plenty of indirect sunlight.
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Check regularly for seedlings to emerge. In about 5-10 days, you should start seeing the marigold seedlings breaking through the soil.
During the indoor period:
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Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering. Water from the bottom of the tray or use a spray bottle to avoid disturbing the small seeds.
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Provide 14-16 hours of light per day to the seedlings. You can achieve this by using fluorescent lights or by placing them near a sunny window. This will promote healthy growth.
Remember to monitor the seedlings closely, and if any issues arise, make the necessary adjustments to ensure their well-being. Good luck with your marigolds!
- Opt for starting marigolds from seeds indoors
- Choose a well-draining potting mix
- Fill a tray or containers with the mix
- Moisten the mix and sow the seeds
- Cover the seeds lightly and mist with water
- Place the tray or containers in a warm area with indirect sunlight
- Monitor for seedling emergence
- Keep soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering
- Provide 14-16 hours of light per day
Spacing Marigolds In Planting Beds And Containers
Proper spacing is essential for healthy growth and optimal performance of marigolds. In planting beds, African marigolds should be spaced 10 to 12 inches apart, while French marigolds can be placed slightly closer together, about 8 to 10 inches apart. This spacing allows each plant to have adequate airflow, reducing the risk of disease and promoting proper development.
If you are planting marigolds in containers, it is crucial to choose the right size pot. African marigolds require at least a 10-inch pot diameter, while larger French marigold varieties will need even larger containers. However, if you plan to grow dwarf French marigolds, they can comfortably thrive in a 6-inch container or a traditional strawberry jar with pockets.
- Proper spacing: 10 to 12 inches for African marigolds, 8 to 10 inches for French marigolds
- Choose pot size based on plant variety:
- African marigolds: 10-inch pot diameter or larger
- Larger French marigold varieties: larger containers
- Dwarf French marigolds: 6-inch container or traditional strawberry jar with pockets.
Caring For Marigolds: Watering And Mulching Tips
Marigolds thrive in well-drained soil, but they also require consistent moisture to produce vibrant blooms. As a general rule, water marigolds when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. However, be cautious not to overwater them, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
To retain moisture and suppress weed growth, applying a layer of mulch after planting marigolds is beneficial. This mulch can be made of various materials such as Scotts bagged mulch, shredded leaves, pine straw, or other locally available options. A 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch will help keep the soil moist, prevent weed competition, and maintain a more consistent soil temperature.
Dealing With Japanese Beetles And Encouraging New Blooms
Marigolds are not immune to pests, and one common culprit is the Japanese beetle. These beetles may be found on the blooms of African marigolds. If you encounter these pests, you can knock them off into a container of soapy water or use a product like Ortho® Insect Killer Rose & Flower Ready-to-Use to control them.
To encourage continuous blooming, it is crucial to remove spent flowers through a process called deadheading. By removing faded blooms, you stimulate the development of new flower buds, which prolongs the blooming period and enhances the overall visual appeal of your marigolds.
During the hottest summer days, marigolds may enter a rest period, especially in regions with intense heat. In such circumstances, it is crucial to keep the plants well-watered to help them overcome this challenging period. Once the intense heat subsides, the marigolds should resume blooming and continue to provide stunning blossoms.
Remember to drench the soil when watering and aim the water towards the base of the plants to prevent leaf diseases. Additionally, continue feeding your marigolds with Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble Bloom Booster® Flower Food about a month after planting. Refer to the instructions on the product label for the recommended feeding amount and frequency.
Following these guidelines and providing optimal care will allow you to enjoy the colorful and prolific blooms of marigolds in your garden all season long.
- Knock off Japanese beetles into soapy water or use Ortho® Insect Killer Rose & Flower Ready-to-Use
- Deadhead faded blooms to stimulate new flower buds
- Keep marigolds well-watered during intense heat
- Water towards the base of the plants to prevent leaf diseases
- Feed marigolds with Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble Bloom Booster® Flower Food about a month after planting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do you arrange marigolds in a garden?
To arrange marigolds in a garden, begin by sowing the seeds one inch apart and one inch deep, ensuring that they are adequately watered. As the seedlings sprout, it is important to thin out signet and French marigold seedlings, leaving a spacing of 8 to 10 inches between each plant. African marigold seedlings should be thinned to a spacing of 10 to 12 inches. By following these guidelines, your marigold garden will flourish with well-spaced and vibrant blooms.
How far apart do you plant marigolds in CM?
To ensure healthy growth and optimal spacing for marigolds, it is recommended to plant the seeds approximately 5 cm apart. Once the seedlings start to develop, thin them out to provide each plant with a comfortable 20 cm of space for dwarf varieties and 30 cm between each plant for taller varieties. This spacing allows for adequate air circulation and prevents overcrowding, encouraging vibrant and flourishing marigolds in your garden.
How far apart should you transplant marigolds?
To ensure healthy growth, it is recommended to transplant marigolds at a distance of 8 to 10 inches apart, keeping in mind that the specific species may require slightly different spacing. Firstly, dig holes at this recommended distance and carefully remove the marigolds from their containers, taking care to untangle their roots. Gently place each marigold in its respective hole, ensuring that the soil reaches the base of its stem. By following these guidelines, you can give your marigolds adequate space to thrive and blossom.
Do marigolds like sun or shade?
Marigolds thrive in full sun and prefer to bask in its warmth all day long. Whether it’s the French, African, or Signet varieties, these vibrant flowers require ample sunlight to produce abundant blooms throughout the season. Interestingly, marigolds also possess a unique ability to repel pests such as deer or rabbits due to their strong odor, making them not only visually appealing but also functionally beneficial for gardeners.