French Marigold
Tagetes patula
Other names: Dwarf marigold
French marigolds are compact, bushy annuals that flower without pause from late spring until frost in shades of orange, yellow and mahogany red. They are quick from seed, cope with heat, and are a traditional edging for vegetable beds.
How to grow French marigold
Light
Full sun gives the most flowers. In very hot climates a little afternoon shade prevents fading.
Watering
Water when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil is dry, aiming at the base of the plant. Marigolds tolerate short dry spells once established. Wet foliage and soggy soil lead to rot.
Soil and feeding
Ordinary garden soil is best. Rich soil and heavy feeding produce leaves instead of flowers.
Planting and pruning
Sow indoors six weeks before the last frost, or directly outdoors once the soil is warm. Space plants 8 to 10 in (20–25 cm) apart. Pinch out the first buds for bushier plants and remove faded flowers every week.
Propagation
Grow from seed. Dried flower heads contain dozens of long, dark seeds that are easy to save, though hybrids may not match the parent.
Common problems
- Fine webbing and speckled leaves
- Spider mites, common in hot, dry weather. Hose the undersides of leaves and water regularly.
- Seedlings eaten overnight
- Slugs and snails. Protect young plants with iron phosphate bait.
- Stems rotting at the base
- Soil is too wet. Improve drainage and water less often.
Questions about French marigold
Do marigolds keep pests away?
The roots of French marigolds release compounds that reduce root-knot nematodes when the plants are grown densely for a full season. Evidence that marigolds repel flying insects is weak.
Do marigolds come back every year?
No. They are annuals that die with the first frost, although they sometimes self-seed.
Plant details
| Botanical name | Tagetes patula |
|---|---|
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Native range | Mexico and Guatemala |
| Plant type | Annuals. Annual |
| Soil | Average, well-drained soil |
| Flower color | Orange, yellow, red |
