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Growing Marigolds

A row of bright orange marigold blooms with layered ruffled petals, growing in a garden bed

The workhorse companion flower, planted as much for pest control as for color.

SunFull sun
SoilAverage, well-drained, pH 6.0–7.5
Spacing8–12 in. apart
Harvest45–50 days to bloom

How to Grow Marigolds

Planting

Direct sow after last frost, or start indoors a few weeks early for earlier blooms. Fast and easy from seed.

Watering & feeding

Moderate, water at the base and let the soil dry between waterings.

Harvest

Deadhead spent blooms regularly to keep new flowers coming all season.

Grows Well With

Plant marigolds throughout the vegetable garden, especially near tomatoes, they’re said to help deter nematodes and a range of common garden pests. See all our companion planting pairs →

When to Plant

Direct sow April through May. Reseed a second round in June for fresh color through the fall. See the full planting calendar →

Buy the Seeds We Use

Enchanting Blooms Flower Seeds - Marigolds

From the Seed Center

Shop Marigolds Seeds

$1.50

From the Kitchen: Recipes Using Marigolds

Looking for recipe ideas? Browse the full Recipe Book.