Everything you need to know about Marigold Seeds

Marigold Seeds Questions & Answers



Can I grow marigolds from seeds?
Yes, marigolds are often one of the first flowers that novice gardeners successfully grow from seed. Simply sow the seeds directly into well-drained soil after the danger of frost has passed, or start them indoors several weeks before the last frost date in your area and transplant them outdoors once the weather warms up. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, and provide plenty of sunlight for healthy growth.

Can you just scatter marigold seeds?
Yes, you can scatter marigold seeds directly onto well-prepared soil (loosen and remove rocks and other debris). After scattering, lightly press them into the soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil or compost. Keep the area moist until the seeds germinate, and thin out the seedlings as they grow.

How long does it take for marigold seeds to sprout?
Marigolds sprout very quickly. Usually you will see the seedlings emerge in less than a week.

What are marigold seeds good for?
Besides growing stunning blooms for your garden, marigold seeds grow plants with edible petals that are used to garnish salads and soups. Marigold plants are also useful for deterring harmful insects in the garden and have been used in traditional medicine for various purposes such as soothing skin conditions and aiding in wound healing.

Should I soak marigold seeds before planting?
Soaking marigold seeds does have the potential to speed up germination. However, marigolds are fast sprouters without (under a week usually). Given the ease of germination for marigolds and the risk of over-hydration, most gardeners skip soaking marigold seeds. Sowing them directly into moist soil and keeping it consistently damp is sufficient.

How many marigold seeds can you plant together?
For French Marigolds, sow 3-4 seeds per group. For African marigolds, sow 2-3 seeds per group. Thin later to the strongest seedling. For full and bushy plants, consider sowing slightly more seeds per group initially and thin later. The thinning process ensures that the remaining plants have enough space to grow and develop properly.

Do marigold seeds need sunlight?
Yes, marigold seeds require sunlight to germinate and grow successfully and marigolds thrive in bright, sunny conditions. It's recommended to sow the seeds in a location that receives full sunlight at least 6-8 hrs per day.

Do marigolds multiply?
Marigolds typically do not multiply on their own like some perennial plants. However, they produce seeds that can self-sow if allowed to drop and germinate in the surrounding soil. Also, marigolds can be propagated by taking cuttings or dividing established plants to create new ones.

Which side of marigold seed goes down?
Even though this might not look to be true, there is no top or bottom to marigold seeds. Place the seeds on the soil horizontally, which mimics the way the seeds naturally fall out of the seed capsule. Since they are strong germinators and have to be sown close to the surface, we can let nature do its thing here!

Will marigolds reseed themselves?
Yes, marigolds are known to self-seed. After the flowers mature and produce seeds, if you don't deadhead, they may drop to the ground and germinate on their own, leading to new marigold plants without the need for additional planting.

Will marigolds come back every year?
In most climates, marigolds are typically grown as annuals and do not come back the following year. However, in some regions with mild winters, marigolds may reseed themselves and return year after year.

Can I grow marigold from dried flowers?
Yes, you can grow marigolds from dried flowers by collecting the seeds from the dried flower heads. Once the flowers have dried out, simply remove the seeds from the seed heads and store them in a cool, dry place until you're ready to plant them. 

Are marigolds hard to start from seed?
Marigolds germinate easily and grow quickly, making them a popular choice for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. They are one of the easiest flowers to start from seed.

How can you tell if a marigold seed is good?
You can conduct a simple germination test by placing a few marigold seeds on a damp paper towel and keeping them in a warm location. If the seeds germinate within a few days to a week, they are viable.

How long do marigolds last?
Marigolds typically bloom continuously from late spring until the first frost in fall, which can range from 3 to 6 months, depending on the climate and growing conditions.

How do you make marigolds bushier?
To make marigolds bushier, pinch off the tips of the main stems when the plants are around 10cm tall. This encourages branching and leads to a fuller, bushier growth habit. Regular deadheading also promotes continuous blooming and encourages the plant to produce more lateral shoots, resulting in a denser appearance.

Where is the best place to plant marigolds?
Choose a spot in that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. and has well-draining soil with good air circulation. Plant marigolds in flower beds, borders, or containers where they can add bright color and natural pest control benefits to your garden.

Can marigolds grow in shade?
Marigolds prefer full sunlight and typically do not do well in shade. While they can tolerate some partial shade, they will produce fewer flowers and may become leggy.

When should I start marigold seeds?
You can start marigold seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. This allows the seedlings to establish before transplanting them outdoors once the weather warms up. Alternatively, you can sow marigold seeds directly into the garden after the last frost date has passed.

Can you plant marigolds close together?
Yes, you can plant marigolds relatively close together, especially if you're planting them for a dense and colorful display. Space marigold plants approximately 20-25 cm apart for a balanced and visually appealing display. However, if you prefer a denser look, you can space them closer together, around 15-20 cm apart.

How much water do marigolds need?
Marigolds generally prefer moderate watering, ensuring the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged.

What is the life cycle of a marigold?
The life cycle of a marigold typically begins with seed germination, followed by the growth of seedlings, then leaves, stems, and eventually flowers. Marigolds bloom throughout the growing season and after flowering, they may produce seeds as they complete their life cycle. In colder climates, marigolds may die back with the arrival of frost, while in warmer regions, they may continue to bloom year-round or self-seed for the next growing season.

Are marigolds toxic to dogs?
Yes, marigolds are considered mildly toxic to dogs if ingested. Please keep marigold plants out of reach of pets and seek veterinary advice if you suspect that your dog may have ingested marigolds.

Can we grow marigold in water?
Yes, its technically possible, and of all marigold varieties, French Marigolds will fare better being grown in water. Its not the easiest project however, as marigolds need specific nutrients and also need proper root support.