This species boasts some of the largest blooms in the marigold family.
African marigolds have long been planted aseasy-to-grow annualsrequiring little maintenance.
Even without the blooms, they have attractive deep green foliage.
Credit: Laurie Dickson
Where to Plant African Marigold
African marigoldsgrow in USDA hardiness zones 2 to 11.
These large pom-pom blooms are perfect for garden beds, path edges, and containersespecially where sunlight is plentiful.
Choose an area that is sunny and protected from strong winds with well-draining, fertile soil.
Credit: Laurie Dickson
If planting seedlings, space them about 10 to 12 inches apart and water thoroughly.
Once established, pinch the plants off to prevent them from sending up single leggy shoots.
This will encourage the plants to grow lush and bushy.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Use your forefinger and thumb to pinch the top of the growing tip.
They are so simple to care for that the sunny blooms are often listed as easyplants for beginning gardeners.
In most zones, they will not survive past fall when temperatures drop to 40 degrees Fahrenheit and cooler.
Credit: Graham Jimerson
Inpoor soils,they may benefit from regular fertilizer applications or a single app of a slow-release fertilizer.
For the amount to use, follow the product label directions.
Pruning
Deadheading the plants will encourage them to continue blooming for a more extended period.
Credit:Seeds of Change
Deadheading also helps the plants focus their energy on flower production versus seed production.
The best time to harvest marigolds forarrangements or craftingis when the flowers are first starting to open.
Be sure to strip off the leaves as they can emit an unpleasant odor.
Credit: Doug Hetherington
Its also a good idea to choose a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent the tall plants from tipping over.
They may develop fungal diseases (like powdery mildew) if the soil or foliage is too wet.
Slugs and snails also like to munch on marigolds, especially on overcast days.
Credit: Scott Little
you’re able to also collect seeds at the end of the year to use next spring.
Breeders have focused on creating denser plants with larger, frillier blooms.
It grows 12 inches tall and 10 inches wide.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
It grows tall at 24 to 36 inches and may need to be staked because of itsheavy flower heads.
French marigolds tend to be frilly and some boast a distinctive “crested eye.”
They do best in full sun with moist, well-drained soil and will flower all summer long.
Credit: Illustration by Gary Palmer
They may reseed, coming back year after year, in spots where they’re happy.
Coreopsis bears golden-yellow, pale yellow, pink, or bicolor flowers, depending on the variety.
It will bloom from early to midsummer or longer if it’s deadheaded.
Credit: Illustration by Helen Smythe
Mexican Sunflower
Attract butterflies and have fun doing it withbig, bold, beautiful Mexican sunflower.
Plant it from seed directly in the ground and watch it soar.
Put a cluster of these bodacious beauties in the back of the border for height and drama.
Many of the taller types need staking to keep them upright.
Plant them outdoors in a sunny spot with well-drained soil after all danger of frost has passed.
Frequently Asked Questions
The three common types of marigolds are African, French, and signet.
Signet marigolds are the smallest of the bunch, often measuring only 6 inches tall or smaller.
They have a single row of petals and are only about 1 inch wide.
Marigolds have a musky, pungent smell that is alluring to some and offensive to others.
African marigolds symbolize different things in different countries.
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