Red Gem Marigold

A profusion of petite single flowers appear on top of the soft and lacey light green foliage. Unlike other types of marigolds, a lovely citrusy scent perfumes the air around them. Beneficial insects are attracted to them, and one of our favorite ways to grow these is to plant 5-7 seedlings in a circle creating a bushy shrub-like appearance. Flower petals are edible and are used to liven up salads and other dishes. Use in beds, borders, and containers. 

25 seeds

PLANTING

Tagetes tenuifolia

Annual 

Germination: 7-10 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-75ºF.

Seed Planting Depth: Sow on the surface and lightly cover

Starting Indoors: Start indoors 4-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide 70-75ºF soil temperature. Transplant after last frost, space 8-15" apart. 

Sowing Outdoors: Starting a week or two before the last frost date into early summer. Sow a few seeds every 8-15", thin to the most robust seedlings, or sow seeds close together, 1 per inch, and when you thin the seedlings transplant them to other places in the garden. 

Growth Habit: Mounded

Height and Width: 12-16” x 10-12”

Spacing: 8-15" apart

Light Needs:  Full sun

Soil Needs:  Average, well-drained

Approximate days to flower from seed: 60-70 days

Uses: Flower beds, containers and planters

Care: Water seedlings regularly until established. Pinch back plants when they are young for a bushier growth habit. Deadhead to prolong blooming. Amend soil with compost before sowing or transplanting or apply liquid fertilizer a few times a season.