Marigolds are a stunning, annual flower to add to any garden! Whether you're looking for the perfect plant to complete your container garden or place them in your outdoor garden space, they are a great option. Available in numerous different varieties, marigolds add a vibrant copper hue amongst fields of greenery.

They bloom all summer long and serve as homes for buzzing pollinators and rewards for every gardener. They are easy flowers to grow but require the same tender love and care as many other plants. 

In this guide, you'll learn how to plant, grow, and care for your marigolds, turning them from seedlings into gorgeous and full flowerbeds or pots.

Reasons to Grow Marigolds

Bee on a marigold flower

Image credits: Myriams-Fotos via Pixabay

If you're not sold yet on growing marigolds in your garden, you'll be interested to hear that they are way more than bright, beautiful blooms. They're just as stunning when they have dried as they are alive. Dried flower arrangements are a great addition for home decor and they're a conversation piece inside any living space.

Like many annuals, marigolds are a low-maintenance plant. They are also a natural pest repellent, meaning they aid in the growth of other plants. They're ideal for placing near outdoor seating areas because their scent repels mosquitos.

On top of that, marigolds essentially act as a natural pesticide that supports the honeybee population. And if you do avoid using chemical pesticides in your yard, you can also eat marigolds, adding them to salads and other summer dishes.

Tools You Will Need to Grow Marigolds

Yellow and orange marigolds

Image credits: Maria Guryanova via Shutterstock

Before you can enjoy the beauty of marigolds growing in your garden, there are a few tools you'll need to cultivate and care for them throughout the season. Find all the essentials below.

  • Marigold seeds or plants
  • Potting mix
  • Small plastic containers or a growing tray
  • Larger pots with drainage
  • Plastic wrap
  • Watering can or hose
  • Hand trowel
  • Gardening gloves

How to Grow Marigolds

Step 1: Plant the Seeds

Woman Plants Seedlings in the Eco Friendly Pots

Image credits: pundapanda via Canva

The first step to growing your marigolds is planting the seeds. Choose a high-quality potting mix that is light and airy. If you want to get an early start to the growing season, you can start your marigolds indoors. Fill your small plastic containers or growing pots halfway with potting mix, and then sprinkle the seeds on top.

Cover the seeds with another layer of potting mix and then cover them with a layer of plastic wrap. Leave them in a warm, sunny area, giving the seeds time to germinate. Once the seedlings appear, remove the plastic wrap and give them ample sunlight.

Step 2: Move Plants to Their Own Pots or the Garden

woman gardener in black gloves holding yellow marigold

Image credits: brizmaker via Shutterstock

Once your marigold seeds have developed into saplings and have two sets of leaves, it will be time to transplant them into their pots or the garden. They'll thrive in warm, sunny conditions as long as temperatures reach over 40 degrees Fahrenheit. You shouldn't plant them outdoors until the chance of frost has passed.

If you plant them outdoors or in large pots, ensure they are three feet apart so they can properly grow. If you prefer to grow your marigolds outdoors from the start, sow the seeds one inch apart in your garden and water frequently. Once the seedlings are two inches tall, they will need to be replanted three feet apart from each other.

Step 3: Care for the Marigolds

watering marigolds

Image credits: RomeoLu via Canva

Caring for marigolds is an incredibly simple process! The most important thing to do is ensure they get plenty of suns. Plant or place them in areas that get at least five hours of sun per day. Also, allow the top inch of soil to dry out between watering - water the plants thoroughly.

Similar to basic plant care rules, you water the base of the plant and avoid wetting the foliage or flowers. Also, you can add a layer of mulch to stop weeds from growing around your golden blooms. Although deadheading isn't necessary, many experienced gardeners will tell you to do so. You can do it to ensure your plant produces all season long but it's not a requirement. 

Grow Your Marigolds

Marigolds are beautiful, easy plants to grow. They are a great way to add color to your garden, as they can thrive in containers and pots. Planting them is very simple. Remember to opt for well-draining soil and keep them in plenty of sunlight. And when it comes to caring, all you need to do is water them once or twice a week as the soil dries out!

So, will you start growing marigolds on your balcony or backyard? Let us know below! And if you're looking for more stunning florals that are easy to grow, check out this list of eight summer flowers that can boost your curb appeal.

Are you marigolds thriving? Let us know in the comments below!