Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) range in size from tiny 6-inch dwarf types to towering 4-foot varieties. Colors typically run the gamut from pale yellow to brilliant shades of orange and red with many bicolors. These easy-to-grow annuals thrive in full sun and tolerate drought well. Their versatility and bright colors makes them suitable for a variety of landscaping needs. With approximately 50 species to choose from, there is a marigold to suit nearly any gardening area.
Plant dwarf marigolds in borders to flowerbeds and vegetable gardens to brighten the area and create a clean line between the bed and the lawn. These cheery flowers attract butterflies and bees, adding color and movement to borders.
Place medium-sized marigolds in container gardens, tucked in with herbs or in the center of flower beds for long-lasting color from spring until fall. Adding marigolds in a variety of colors keeps your perennial bed alive, even when no perennials are in bloom.
Create a backdrop for flowerbeds with tall marigolds by placing them at the back of the garden. Line fences or walls with these striking flowers and fill in the front with smaller flowers.
Dig holes in slopes or rocky areas and fill with a garden soil. Tuck in marigold seedlings and mulch heavily with organic mulch to create a splash of color in areas where other flowers cannot be grown.
Fill buckets and containers with marigolds and cluster them together in a sunny location to add sizzle to the summer garden. Vary the size and color of the marigolds to add interest and depth to the grouping.
Tuck marigolds into window boxes with an assortment of flowers in varying textures and sizes. Pair them with "Homestead Purple" verbena (Verbena canadensis "Homestead Purple") or sweet alyssum (Lobularia maritima) for a dazzling display of color and texture.
Fill a hanging basket with signet marigolds (Tagetes tenuifolia). These tiny marigolds produce a mass of dense foliage and produce an abundance of single petaled blooms. Foliage is lemon-scented and lacy, making this an eye-catcher when added to hanging baskets or tucked into plant bags hung on garden walls.
Things You Will Need
- Plant pots
- Window box
- Hanging basket
- Marigolds prefer full sun for six to eight hours a day, but will grow in less sun. Blooming may be delayed or inhibited in areas with less sun.
- Deahdead marigolds regularly to encourage prolonged blooming.
- Water marigolds once or twice a week or whenever the soil dries.
- Marigolds may cease bloom during extreme dry periods -- if they are neglected. Shear them back to a height of 2 to 4 inches and water well to force new growth.
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