How to Grow Marigolds
Welcome to the Word of Mexican Gardening In order for your marigolds you will need to start growing marigolds from seed indoors about 50 to 60 days before the last frost date.
Vamos a empezar! Start by obtaining a tray or pots at least 2” inches deep (from egg cartons to (Dollar Tree) etc. something suitable for germination. Fill each with damp soilless potting mix.
Lay on TOP of the soil 2 marigold seeds per pod or mini container. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of vermiculite (if available). Cover the pot or tray with a plastic cover and place the tray in a warm spot. The top of the refrigerator works well. Marigold seeds do NOT need any light to germinate, so you DON’T need to provide light yet.
The next step for growing marigolds from seed is to check your planted marigold seeds daily for germination. Typically, marigolds will take three to four days to germinate, but may take a few days longer if the location is cooler. Once the marigold seedlings appear, remove the plastic wrap/cover and move the tray to a location where the seedlings will get at least five hours or more of light each day.
The light can be from an artificial source. As the seedlings grow, keep the potting mix damp by watering from below. This will help to prevent killing your marigolds.
If your new plants are leaning towards a light source try Turning on a regular basis, it will help keep your plants looking their best – all of which results in healthier, stronger growth and better looking.
Once the seedlings have two sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted to their Mex Y Can pots provided to you (or your own to help us reduce the environment footprint) where they can grow indoors under light until after the last frost has passed.
GREAT JOB! If you haven’t killed them by now.
Caring for Marigolds in Pots
Don’t crowd potted marigold plants, as healthy marigolds require plenty of air circulation. 1-3 marigold is enough for a 6-inch pot. Be sure the container has a drainage hole in the bottom. Use a good quality, lightweight potting mix. A handful of sand, perlite or vermiculite improves drainage. Place the pot where the marigold is exposed to at least six hours of sunlight. Water the marigold when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil is dry. Water deeply, then let the soil dry before watering again. Never allow the soil to remain soggy, as wet conditions invite root rot and other moisture-related diseases.
Next Bulletin you will learn –How to Pinch the tips of newly planted marigolds once or twice to encourage bushy plants. Deadhead the plants regularly to trigger new blooms. Apply a water-soluble fertilizer every month, but don’t over fertilize. Too much fertilizer or overly rich soil can produce weak plants with few blooms.
Arturo Gonzalez Parangaricutirimicuaro
Your Mex Y Can Association Gardener