All about growing Marigold from seed

Growing Guide

Sow Marigolds from February to March indoors or in a greenhouse in good seed compost. Just cover the seed with compost and keep the soil damp but not wet.

Marigolds can also be sown outdoors where they are to flower during April once the soil has warmed. Keep moist until after germination and thin out to 20-25cm apart.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, prick out and grow in cooler conditions. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 20-25cm apart in a sunny spot.

Regular removal of dead flower heads will promote new growth and prolong the flowering season.

  • Key Information

    Height: to 30cm

    Spread: to 30cm

    Half-hardy annual

    Full sun

    Germination: 5- 14 days

    Harvest: From 10 weeks

  • Sowing & Growing Schedule

    Sow Indoors: February to April

    Sow Outdoors: May

    Plant Out: May

    Blooms: June to October

  • Varieties we recommend

    Crackerjack

    African Sunspot

    Bonanza

Top Tip

Whilst all Marigolds are edible, not all are known to be tasty! Therefore those supplied by Collie Flowers have passed a taste test so that as well as looking good on your salad they're not just there for decoration.

Did you know also that some cultures use Marigolds as natural dyes too.