How to Care for Marigolds: Gardening Guide

Marigolds are one of the most common flowers found in yards, gardens, and landscaping in general. They also make great companion plants for many fruits and vegetables.

You don’t have to be an expert gardener for planting and taking care of marigolds.

But, to get the perfect bloom of this beauty, you have to put in a little effort and follow the proper care steps like taking care of light exposure, choosing the right container (or position outside in the garden), and more.

Read on below and find out exactly how to take care of Marigolds!

How To Care For Marigolds

Supplies Needed

• Shovel
• Plastic wrap
• Potting mix
• A growing tray or plastic container
• Liquid nutrients
• Watering can or hose

Provide Enough Light Exposure

Like other plants, marigolds require sufficient sunlight to grow and bloom their flowers. There are different species and types of marigold plants.

Irrespective of that, you will have to provide them with a minimum of six hours of light exposure. But take care as too much sunlight for the whole day can be harmful to your plant.

Choose Containers With Drain Holes

While planting the marigold plant, choose a container that has a drain hole at its bottom. When you water them, the extra water is drained out from the container.

Doing this will protect your plant from powdery mildew on its leaves. Also, make sure to let it dry properly before another watering time. 

Don’t Overcrowd The Pot

When you are planting the seeds in a pot, do not overcrowd them. This is because the plant needs enough space for air circulation.

Otherwise, the roots and leaves of marigolds start getting weak and ultimately stop their growth. Thus, you should grow a single plant in a pot that is at least six inches wide. 

Meet Its Water Requirements 

Enough watering is necessary for the marigold plant, right from growing seedling to adult plant. In the case of seedlings, you should water them gently and provide the time for drying as well.

In contrast, the adult plant needs a rich water supply. You have to water it when 1 to 2 inches of topsoil is dry.

Pinch Off The Tops

Light exposure and water supply are not enough for growing a marigold plant quickly and successfully. You should pinch off the tops by keep checking for them regularly.

It is not a hard and fast rule to deadhead the plant. 

By doing this, you can grow them quickly throughout the summer. Furthermore, you can keep your plant clean from all the dead bushes and leaves in this way.

Pro Tips for Marigolds Care

Don’t Overhydrate

Water the plant regularly as it is one of its essential requirements to grow. But you have to take care that too much water supply can make its growth even slower.

When water droplets remain on the surface of leaves for a longer time, it results in powdery mildew. That’s why it is advised to let your plant dry between each watering cycle.

Keep Them At Moderate Temperature

Marigolds need a specific temperature to grow better and rapidly. For germinating seeds, the ideal temperature is 22 degrees Celsius.

In comparison, you have to provide 24 degrees Celsius for its proper growth. Thus, you should maintain a moderate temperature and save it from the excessive heat of sunlight.

Check For Pests & Diseases

Sometimes your plant can be attacked by some aphids and spider mites. In this case, you can use insecticidal soap, spray, or organic pest control methods to solve this problem.

A fungal disease like powdery mildew is common in marigold plants if they are overhydrated. Hence, it is recommended not to overwater the plant, especially its leaves, to avoid mildew growth.

Caring for Marigolds

Marigolds are easygoing plants that can be grown at home with a little knowledge and a bit of effort. That said, planting them outside, in your home garden, requires a bit more time and energy than growing them in pots on the porch.

Feel free to refer back to this guide as many times as you need to, and good luck with your Marigolds!

Suggested Reading: HOW TO CARE FOR EGGPLANT: QUICK GUIDE