Marigold care guide
Tagetes
Also known as: French marigold, African marigold, Tagetes erecta, Tagetes patula
Pets and children
Caution advised
The sap can irritate skin, and dogs or cats that eat the leaves may get mild vomiting or diarrhea; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Marigold
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 3 days
- Water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, as a guide; it dislikes soggy soil, so empty the saucer.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 4 days
- It keeps blooming in fall, so water when dry, though usually less often, about every three to five days.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 7 days
- Generally an annual that dies with frost; any plant that lingers gets sparing water a few days after the soil dries.
Light and placement for Marigold
A sunny, airy spot outdoors is the guide; in low light it flowers less and stretches, and French types flag in midsummer heat and humidity, so airflow matters then.
Overwintering Marigold
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
Frost-tender and usually grown as an annual: let it bloom through fall, collect seed and sow again the next spring, as a guide.
Fertilizing and repotting Marigold
Fertilizer
Slow-release fertilizer at planting and liquid feed about every two weeks while in bloom; too much nitrogen gives foliage instead of flowers.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Marigold
- Muggy weather from the rainy season into midsummer rots the base and the plant dies back.
- Spent flowers left to set seed halt further blooming.
- Overwatering rots the roots and the lower leaves yellow.
Tips for growing Marigold
- Cutting back by about half in summer brings a strong fall bloom.
- Deadheading regularly keeps new flowers coming.
- Its scent is said to deter pests, so many people plant it beside vegetables.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
