Marigolds

I love growing marigolds as they are not only beautiful and provide so much colour to my garden, but they also attract beneficial insects and deter certain pests. What an amazing flower! Here are some planting tips for you when planting your marigolds:

 1. Timing is Key

  • Sowing Season: In most parts of Australia, marigolds can be sown from spring (September to November) through early summer (December). If you’re in a warmer climate, you might even plant them in late summer (February to March).

2. Find the Perfect Spot

  • Sunlight: Marigolds thrive in full sun, so look for a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

  • Soil: They prefer well-drained, loamy soil with good fertility. A pH between 6.0 and 7.0 works best.

3. Preparing the Soil

  • Soil Amendments: Before planting, mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil.

  • Tilling: Loosen the soil to about 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) deep to help with root development.

4. Planting Your Seedlings

  • Spacing: Space seedlings about 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) apart, depending on the variety. This allows them room to grow and thrive.

  • Watering: Water the seedlings gently before and after transplanting to help them settle in.

5. Caring for Your Marigolds

  • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as marigolds don’t like soggy roots.

  • Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  • Fertilizing: A balanced fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season to encourage blooming.

6. Pest and Disease Management

  • Common Pests: Watch for aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Marigolds are natural pest repellents, but keep an eye out!

  • Diseases: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

7. Deadheading and Pruning

  • Regularly deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowering. You can also prune back leggy plants to promote bushier growth.

8. Harvesting Seeds

  • If you want to collect seeds for next season, let a few flowers go to seed. Once the seed heads turn brown, collect and store them in a cool, dry place.

9. Extra Tips Just for You

  • Companion Planting: Marigolds are great companions for vegetables like tomatoes and capsicums, as they help deter pests.

  • Seasonal Blooms: If you stagger your planting, you can enjoy continuous blooms throughout the warmer months!

If you have any questions or needing some additional guidance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can send me an email: aplotincommon@outlook.com or message me on Instagram. I would love to see some photos of your marigolds!

Tash xx