MARIGOLDS – Marigolds are a summer staple, but if you want them blooming in the fall, now is the time to set out new plants as ones blooming now wear out in the heat. (Photo by MSU Extension/Gary Bachman)
by Bronwynne Bailey
Tagetes erecta, commonly known as the African marigold or Aztec marigold, is a vibrant flowering plant native to Mexico and Central America. Renowned for its large, bright yellow to orange blooms, it belongs to the Asteraceae family and is widely cultivated for ornamental, cultural, and medicinal purposes. Traditionally used in Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations in Mexico, Tagetes erecta holds deep symbolic significance, believed to guide the spirits of the deceased with its vivid color and strong fragrance. Beyond its cultural role, this hardy annual plant is also valued for its pest-repellent properties and use in natural dyes and herbal remedies. Its adaptability and striking appearance have made it a popular choice in gardens and landscapes around the world.
Growth Habits
Tagetes erecta exhibits a robust and upright growth habit, making it one of the tallest species within the marigold family. Typically reaching heights of 12 to 39 inches, the plant features thick, sturdy stems that support large, globe-shaped flower heads. It thrives in well-drained soil under full sunlight, showing rapid growth during warm seasons. The leaves are pinnately divided, deeply lobed, and emit a strong aroma when crushed. Tagetes erecta grows best in warm climates and requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for mass plantings and borders. It blooms profusely from early summer to fall, especially when deadheaded regularly to encourage continuous flowering. The plant is drought-tolerant once established, though regular watering promotes fuller growth and larger blooms.
Soil Preferences
While it tolerates a wide variety of soil conditions and textures, make sure the planting bed has a well-drained soil.
Planting Depth & Spacing
Considered an annual, bedding plants may be added at anytime during the growing season. You will find them available in local nurseries for fall planting.
Watering
Avoid watering the leaves to minimize the spread of fungal contagions.
Fertilizing
Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning Tagetes erecta is a simple yet effective practice that encourages healthier growth and prolonged blooming. The most common form of pruning is deadheading, which involves regularly removing spent or faded flowers. This prevents the plant from directing energy into seed production and instead promotes the growth of new blooms. Light trimming of the stems can also help maintain a compact, bushy shape and prevent the plant from becoming leggy or top-heavy, especially in taller varieties. Pruning is best done using clean, sharp scissors or garden shears to avoid damaging the stems. Additionally, removing any yellowing or diseased leaves improves air circulation and reduces the risk of fungal infections. With consistent pruning, Tagetes erecta can maintain vibrant, continuous flowering throughout the growing season.
Pests
Tagetes erecta, while generally considered hardy and pest-resistant, can still be affected by a variety of diseases and pests under certain conditions. Common fungal diseases include powdery mildew, root rot, and botrytis blight, especially when the plant is exposed to excessive moisture or poor air circulation. Damping-off may also affect seedlings in overly wet or compacted soil. In terms of pests, aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, and thrips are the most frequent culprits, often feeding on the plant’s sap and potentially transmitting viral diseases. Leaf miners may also tunnel into the leaves, causing visible damage. Proper cultural practices, such as avoiding overhead watering, ensuring good drainage, and spacing plants adequately, can significantly reduce the risk of these issues. Additionally, regular inspection and the use of natural or chemical controls can help manage infestations effectively.
Propagation
Tagetes erecta is usually propagated by seeds, making it an easy and cost-effective plant to grow. Seeds can be sown directly into the garden soil after the last frost or started indoors four to six weeks before transplanting outdoors. The seeds germinate quickly, usually within five to seven days, when kept in warm, moist conditions with temperatures around 21–24°C (70–75°F). For best results, the soil should be well-drained and moderately fertile. Once the seedlings develop a few true leaves, they can be thinned or transplanted to their final growing locations. Although less common, cuttings can also be used for propagation, particularly in greenhouse or controlled environments. However, seed propagation remains the preferred method due to the plant’s fast growth rate and high germination success.
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