What to know
When thevibrant huesof marigolds grace your garden , it ’s a testament to the sweetheart and resilience of thesecheerful bloom . But did you know that you may propagate these annual from seed you ’ve saved from last year ’s plant life ? This guide will render you with a step - by - step process on how to implant marigold seeds from last yr , allowing you to enjoy theircaptivating colors seasonafter time of year .
1. Collecting and Storing Marigold Seeds
After your marigolds have bloomed and faded , allow for the blossom heads to dry out on the industrial plant . Once theheads turn brownand papery , you could collect the seeds . Gently agitate the heads into apaper bagor envelope . Store the seeds in a cool , dry place until you ’re ready to plant them .
2. Viability Testing
To ensure the viability of your seeds , perform agermination test . come out a few seeds on amoist paper toweland wrap it in pliant wrap . Keep thepaper towel moistand place it in a warm location . Check the seeds after a few twenty-four hours . If they germinate ( sprout ) , they ’re viable and quick to plant .
3. Soil Preparation
marigold favour well - drain soilwith a pH of 6.0 to 7.0 . Amend the soil with compost or manure toimprove fertilityand drainage .
4. Planting Time
Theideal timetoplant marigold seedsfrom last year is in the spring , when the soil has warmed up . You canstart seeds indoors6 to 8 week before the last Robert Lee Frost or inseminate them instantly outdoors once the grunge temperature reaches 60 ° F ( 15 ° C ) .
5. Planting Depth and Spacing
Sow the germ 1/4 to 1/2inch deepand space them 6 to 12 inches asunder . concealment theseeds lightlywith soil andgently patdown .
6. Watering
Water theseeds deeplyafter planting . Keep thesoil moistbut not soggy during the sprouting process .
7. Germination and Care
Marigold seed typically germinate within 7 to 14 days . Once theseedlings come out , slim down them to the strongest plants . Water regularly and feed monthly with a balanced fertilizer .
8. Pest and Disease Prevention
Marigolds are relatively pest - resistant , but they can be susceptible to aphids , whitefly , andspider mite . Regularly audit your plant life for any signs of infestation and handle accordingly .
9. Companion Planting
Marigolds are excellent companion plants for tomatoes , roses , and beans . Theyrelease chemicalsthatdeter pestsand improve the flavor of nearby plant .
10. Harvesting Marigolds
You canharvest marigold flowersthroughout thegrowing time of year . cut down the stem just above a set of leaves to encourage stay bloom .
Questions You May Have
Q : Can Iplant marigold seedsfrom store - purchase flowers?A : Yes , you may , but the seed may not be as workable as those hoard from your own plants . entrepot - bribe flowers may have been treated with chemicals that can affect source germination . Q : How long can I hive away marigold seeds?A : Marigold seedscan be stored for up to 3 years in a nerveless , dry spot . Q : Can Iplant marigold seedsin the fall?A : marigold cantolerate light frosts , but it ’s best to embed them in the spring foroptimal growthand flowering . Q : What is the best plant food for marigolds?A : Use abalanced fertilizerwith a proportion of 10 - 10 - 10 . Fertilize monthly during the grow season . Q : How can Iprevent powdery mildewon marigolds?A : Ensure adept melody circulationaround your plants and water at the infrastructure of the plant to nullify get down the leaves wet .
