Preparation & Planting Marigolds in the Garden
Marigolds thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, though they can tolerate some afternoon shade.To prepare the planting site, mix a little compost into the existing soil, using a garden shovel to turn it through the top 10 cm.
Gently remove marigolds from their nursery pot or punnet, lightly teasing the roots if compact. If in punnets, separate them into individual plants. Plant marigolds in the prepared soil, backfill around each, and water them well. Add mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture. Caring for marigolds is simple.
Growing Marigolds from Seeds
Marigolds are easy to grow from seeds. Simply broadcast the seeds over prepared soil in spring when it’s warm, lightly covering them with soil. Keep the soil moist as the seeds germinate.
For pot-grown marigolds, sow seeds into pots or punnets filled with rose, Gardenia, Azalea & Camellia Mix. If kept in a frost-free location, marigold seeds can be sown in late autumn or winter.
Transplant marigolds grown in pots or punnets into the garden or larger pots in spring.
How to Grow Marigolds in Pots
Caring for marigolds requires plenty of sunlight, well-drained soil, and regular watering. Marigolds can thrive in small to medium pots or planters (at least 20 cm wide and deep) with good drainage. Choose a pot that suits the mature size of your chosen marigold variety, opting for compact types if space is limited.
Fill the pot with Rose, Gardenia, Azalea & Camellia Mix. Gently remove the marigolds from the nursery pot, tease the roots, or separate them if needed. Plant them according to the recommended spacing and backfill with the potting mix. Water well and mulch to retain moisture.
Marigold Plant Care and Fertilizing
Marigolds don’t need much fertilizer. A single application of Release Fertiliser: Roses, Gardenias, Azaleas & Camellias in spring is usually sufficient for annual marigolds. If they survive winter and bloom again, apply a second dose in early autumn.
Deadhead marigolds throughout the flowering season to encourage bushy growth and more blooms.
Marigold Pests & Diseases
Marigolds can be vulnerable to fungal diseases in high humidity. To prevent rust and powdery mildew, maintain recommended plant spacings and remove lower branches for better airflow.
Aphids may infest new growth—treat with Insect Spray if needed.
Slugs and snails can damage young seedlings. Protect them with beer traps or use Snail & Slug Pellets.
When to Plant
Marigolds can be planted at various times throughout the year depending on your region and climate.
source: https://www.lovethegarden.com/au-en/growing-guide/how-grow-care-marigold
