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Marigolds

Scientific Name: Tagetes spp.
Family: Asteraceae
Type: Ornamental annual

Marigold flower bud forming
Marigold flower bud forming and about to open
Big orange double marigold flower fully open

Marigolds are highly regarded for their vibrant flowers, minimal maintenance requirements, and ease of cultivation. Found in gardens worldwide, these flowers are valued for their visual allure, cultural significance, and application in integrated pest management. Click each section to learn more about adding marigolds to your garden.

Forms and Growth Habits

There are three common types of marigolds: French (Tagetes patula), African (Tagetes erecta), and Signet (Tagetes tenuifolia). French marigolds are compact (~6-12″ height) with either single or double flowers. African marigolds are taller (~3-4′ height), have a strong upright habit and typically produce large double flowers. Signet marigolds are the smallest in size (<6″ height), have a mound-like growth habit, and have edible flowers often with a single row of petals.

Growing Conditions

Zone: 2-11
Light: Full sun (6 – 8 hours of direct sun)
Soil: Well-drained, pH 6-7
Water: Moderate; ensure even moisture in soil but avoid waterlogging
Fertilization: Low feeders; does not require heavy fertilization

Growing Tips

Marigolds can be direct seeded into garden soil when soil temperatures are >65°F or seeds can be started indoors ~8 weeks prior to transplanting outdoors after the threat of frost has passed. Pinch the tips off of the plant to encourage a bushier growth habit. After flowering begins, deadhead old blooms to encourage new blooms and reduce disease prevalence.

Use in Pest Management

Cover cropping with French marigolds has been shown to reduce the number of root-knot nematodes in soil. French marigolds release a chemical (alpha-terthienyl) that is highly toxic to root-knot nematodes and prevents their eggs from hatching. Additionally, root-knot nematodes are not able to live and develop properly within marigold roots.

Where did marigolds originate?

Marigolds are native to Mexico and Central America.

What are Marsh Marigold and Pot Marigold?

Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris) is an herbaceous perennial in the Ranunculaceae family. The common name is misleading because Marsh Marigold is not related to, nor resembles, Tagetes spp.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is sometimes referred to as Pot Marigold. Although both C. officinalis and Tagetes spp. belong to the Asteraceae family, these two plants should not be confused.

Additional Marigold Resources:
University of Minnesota’s Flower Trials and Research

Yellow marigolds in bloom in the garden
French marigolds.
Orange marigolds in bloom in the garden
African marigolds.
Red and yellow single flower marigold
Signet marigolds.

Author: Lauren Mortensen
Photos: Susan Mahr

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