Tagetes patula

A compact annual growing to around 20cm tall and 15cm wide.

Double flowers range in colour from browny-red to orange and yellow and variations of. Both leaves and flowers are fragrant when touched but it it not a sweet scent.

Easily grown in average, evenly moist, well-drained soils in full sun. Can tolerate dry soils once established. Appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates.

Bedding plants are usually raised from seed sown under trays under cover. The seedlings are transplanted into small containers for growing on before finally being planted out. Transfer seedlings outdoors to be hardened off before planting. Soil should be friable. Prior to planting, rake general purpose fertiliser into the soil at about 100 grams (about 2 handfuls) per square metre. Plant at the same depth at which the plants were growing in their container. Planting too deeply usually results in failure. Handle carefully to minimise root disturbance. Plant marigolds 20 to 25cm apart from one from another. Water the plants before removing from their pot to plant them in beds and then again once planted. Firm in well when planting.

Plant out after all danger of frost has passed in the spring. Pinch young plants to promote bushy growth. Marigolds should only be grown in full sun. They are not fussy when it comes to the soil they are grown in as long as it is well-drained. They will actually produce more flowers but less foliage if they are grown in soil that isn't too rich.

It is advisable to add organic matter, such as compost, to the soil every second year and an annual application of lime. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooms. This plant has moderate feeding requirements. If in beds, a soluble multi-feed used every six weeks is adequate. Monthly feeding is preferable if in containers or hanging baskets. This feeding will ensure prolific blooming and healthy strong plants. Apply mulch once planted as this will help suppress weeds and conserve moisture.

Bedding plants can be allowed to die each autumn (and often do) then new plants purchased or raised from seed each spring. Water during dry summer periods to prolong flowering.

Promptly deadhead spent flowers. Flowering may decrease considerably in the heat of the summer but will resume as cooler weather arrives. Water regularly until new plants become well established after which marigold plants become fairly drought tolerant. During periods of high temperatures when they will need regular watering again. Take precautions to protect your marigold plants from slugs and snails. Pinch back tall marigold varieties when young to encourage bushiness and give them support.

Attracts butterflies and bees.

Susceptible to powdery mildew, botrytis, leaf spot and rots. Slugs and snails will damage foliage in wet periods.

Tomatoes are good companion plants as the Tagetes acts as a host for whitefly instead of the tomatoes if growing in a glasshouse.

Annual