Tagetes erecta

Sowing and care guidance

Tagetes erecta seeds prefer full sun and well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Start indoors before the last frost with gentle warmth and light, then transplant outside only once frost has fully passed; or direct sow after the last frost. In mild-winter climates, autumn sowing may be possible. Plant to a depth just covering the seed, keep evenly moist, and avoid waterlogging. Space plants generously to promote air flow and reduce humidity around foliage; follow packet guidance, as height ranges from medium to tall. Harden off seedlings gradually. Pinch tips of young plants to encourage branching, stake taller selections in exposed sites, and deadhead spent blooms to extend flowering. Feed sparingly to avoid lush leaves at the expense of flowers.

• Start indoors before last frost; transplant after frost; or direct sow after last frost; autumn sowing in mild-winter climates.
• Provide full sun and well-drained, moderately fertile soil; keep evenly moist and avoid waterlogging.
• Spacing: allow good air flow, avoid overcrowding, and follow packet guidance.
• Suitable for containers with good drainage; choose a stable pot to support medium to tall growth.
• Flowers can support visiting pollinating insects.
• Grown as an ornamental for bold, long-lasting colour in beds and borders.

How do I grow Tagetes erecta from seed?

Sow African marigold seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost or direct sow once frost has passed and the soil is warm. Cover seeds lightly (about 5–10 mm), keep evenly moist, and maintain 18–24°C for germination in 5–10 days. Provide bright light to prevent legginess, then thin or prick out seedlings to give space. Begin gentle air movement or brush seedlings to strengthen stems, and harden off for 7–10 days before planting out in settled, frost-free conditions.

When should I sow and transplant marigold seeds relative to frost?

Start seeds indoors in late winter to early spring (Northern Hemisphere) / late summer to early autumn (Southern Hemisphere) so they are ready to plant after the last frost, once nights are mild and soil is workable. Direct sow outdoors after the final frost when the ground has warmed. Transplant hardened-off seedlings after frost danger has fully passed; in mild-winter climates, autumn sowing may be possible for earlier blooms, provided plants are protected from cold snaps.

What sun and soil do African marigolds need?

Tagetes erecta thrives in full sun and well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Avoid waterlogging, which can cause root problems, and improve heavy ground with organic matter and coarse material for drainage. Overly rich soil or excessive nitrogen can lead to lush foliage with fewer blooms, so aim for balanced fertility. A light mulch helps retain moisture without smothering the crown, and watering at the base keeps foliage dry and reduces disease risk.

How tall do Tagetes erecta grow, and how should I space them?

Most African marigolds are medium to tall, typically reaching 60–90 cm, with some cultivars shorter or taller. Space plants about 30–45 cm apart to ensure good air flow and sturdy growth, adjusting for the variety’s mature spread and local conditions. Taller, heavy-headed types may benefit from discreet staking in windy sites. Avoid overcrowding, which encourages mildew and reduces flowering; follow seed packet guidance for specific cultivars.

Can African marigolds be grown in containers?

Yes. Choose a pot with ample drainage and a quality, well-drained potting mix. Compact cultivars suit smaller pots; medium to tall types need a larger, deeper container for stability and root run. Water thoroughly but let the top layer dry slightly between waterings, and feed lightly during bud formation. Place containers in full sun and rotate occasionally for even growth; regular deadheading helps keep plants tidy and blooming.

Are marigolds good for pollinators, and how can blooms last longer?

Marigolds offer nectar and pollen, and single or semi-double forms are generally more accessible to pollinators than very double types. For prolonged flowering, deadhead spent blooms, avoid excessive nitrogen, and maintain consistent moisture without soggy soil. Pinching young plants encourages bushier growth, and taller varieties appreciate wind protection. Cutting stems for arrangements when flowers are just opening both extends vase life and stimulates continual bud production throughout the season.

Our cultivation guidance reflects general horticultural practice and is intended for varied conditions. Actual results can differ with microclimate, soil structure and fertility, drainage, aspect, and local weather patterns. Individual product pages provide precise, variety-specific directions, including sowing depths, spacing, and timing cues such as after last frost or when soil is workable.

Guidance for successful sowing and care

Tagetes erecta seeds can be started under cover when soil is still cool, or direct sown once the ground is workable and temperatures have settled after the last frost. In mild climates, autumn sowing may be possible for earlier blooms. Sow shallowly, as light aids germination; keep evenly moist, not waterlogged. Provide warmth for germination; transplant when roots have filled cells and frosts have passed. Choose a sunny site with free-draining, moderately fertile soil. Space plants generously to allow airflow, especially for taller varieties. Pinch young growth to encourage branching, and remove spent blooms to prolong flowering. Water deeply but infrequently once established, avoiding wet foliage. Support may be helpful in windy sites. These annuals appreciate balanced feeding but perform well without heavy fertilisation. Further information on varieties and cultivation is available from SeedsChoice.