Are Marigolds Perennials?
Besides the fact that they are beautiful, they are also very versatile and easy to grow. There are different types of marigolds to choose from, such as French and African marigolds. There are even Giant marigolds, which grow much bigger than their cousins.
Common Garden Marigolds
Whether you want to grow marigolds for their beauty or their ability to repel pests, it’s important to know how to care for them. The plants are known for their longevity and low maintenance.
In order to ensure your marigolds will thrive, you should provide them with moderately fertile soil that is well-drained. These flowers also need a lot of sun to bloom, so be sure to plant them in full sun.
The best time to plant marigolds is in the spring after the danger of frost is passed. In warmer climates, the flowers can bloom all year, but they will need to be sheltered from frost. If you live in a frost-prone area, you will need to cover the plants with a cold frame or grow lights.
French And African Marigolds
Depending on the variety, marigolds can grow anywhere from six inches to six feet tall. They add an incredible burst of color to your garden and attract pollinators. In addition, marigolds deter pests, including bees.
If you live in a cooler area, marigolds can be planted indoors up to two months before the last expected frost. You can also plant them outdoors once the danger of frost is over. However, you must thin out your seedlings to allow them to grow properly.
African and French marigolds are easy to grow and maintain. They are perennial and require well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. In addition, marigolds are believed to deter insects and slugs.
The ‘Tiger Eyes’ marigold variety produces two-inch flowers with a ring of deep red petals. The ‘Phyllis’ marigold variety produces chrysanthemum-like blooms that pair well with ageratum.
Giant Marigolds
Known as African marigolds, these easy-to-grow plants have bright flowers and a strong upright growth habit. They can be purchased as plants or seeds. They should be planted about a foot apart, or in a container, if you prefer.
African marigolds can be grown in a variety of soil types. They are a good plant for novice gardeners. Their flowers are bright and can be multicolored. They can also be a good first plant for children.
Depending on the variety, African marigolds can grow to about three to four feet in height. The taller varieties are more prone to top-heaviness. They should be staked or planted in early spring. Alternatively, they can be transplanted from the seed.
African marigolds are a good choice for hot, dry climates. They are also sensitive to frost. To help protect your plants, add mulch to the soil around the base of the plants. They can also be placed in a cellar or other cool area.
Problems With Marigolds
Keeping your marigolds alive and producing beautiful blooms can be challenging. Although they are low maintenance, there are some problems that can hinder their growth. These issues can be resolved by following a few simple tips.
First, try to identify the problem. If you have an aphid infestation, you may see curled leaves, sticky secretions on new buds, and mottled leaves. It is important to keep these pests out of the marigold garden as they can carry diseases.
You can also try to prevent these problems by making sure the soil is well-drained. If the soil is too moist, the plants will become wilted. Make sure you water the base of the plant, not the leaves. This will prevent powdery mildew, which happens when the leaves get wet.
Watering Marigolds
Keeping marigolds alive requires the proper care throughout the season. You need to water the plant regularly to keep it healthy. You can also apply insecticidal soap to kill off pests.
If you have a garden full of marigolds, you may want to consider using a drip irrigation system. This will cut down on your work. You can also plant marigolds in a pot instead of in the ground. This will allow you to water more often.
In addition, you can use a mulch to keep weeds from growing around the flowers. You can also use neem oil to kill off pests. You may want to trim away dead blossoms to encourage more blooms.
You need to water marigolds more often if the weather is hot and dry. You can also apply a light fertilizer every few weeks to help the plant produce flowers.
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