How to grow marigolds from seeds in containers

Marigolds are herbaceous plants that belong to the family Asteraceae. Many species of marigold vary in colour and size. These flowers come in different colours such as orange, gold, yellow and white. Marigolds are low-maintenance flowers and they grow well in any type of soil and are drought tolerant. They help to repel several pests and rodents. They are often grown as companion plant with tomato, eggplant, cucumbers and basil.

It is easy to grow marigolds in containers. They can thrive in high temperatures and average soil conditions. You can grow marigolds in all seasons except for winter. Not all marigold varieties can be grown in a small container. For instance, African or Mexican marigolds can grow in a container that is 12 inch deep. The French variety can be grown in a container that is 6 inch deep. At the same time, marigolds need space to grow well so it is necessary to grow a few plants in a single container. You can grow a single marigold in a container that is 6 inch deep and two to three marigolds in a container that is 12 inch deep. You can start seeds indoors and transplant them when they grow 6 inches tall. You can also sow seeds directly in the container. Since marigold are not frost tolerant, make sure you transplant the seedlings when the temperatures increase during the spring season.

How to grow marigolds from seeds

• Choose a container based on the variety and the number of plants you will grow. The container must have proper drainage holes.
• Fill the container with a potting mix containing 30 % garden soil, 40 % coarse sand and 30 % compost.
• Sow 2 to 3 seeds on the container and cover it with a thin layer of soil. Gently water the soil.
• You will see the seeds germinating after 6 to 7 days. You can place the container in a location that receives 5 to 6 hours of sunlight every day. You can water your plants when the soil is dry. Avoid overwatering as it can result in root rot.
• You can add compost or liquid fertiliser to your marigolds once in 2 months as they grow well in average soil conditions.
• The plant will start to bloom within 45 to 50 days. They will continue to bloom till frost. The lifespan of a marigold plant is one year.