Marigolds (Tagetes) have been grown in gardens all over the world for hundreds of years. They are native to Mexico. I became acquainted with this wonderful little flower as a result of having a not so "green" thumb. My many failed attempts at growing flowers were legend in my neighborhood. One of my neighbors finally took pity on me and gave me a few marigold seedlings he had left over. I followed his instructions, and lo and behold, they took off like rockets producing mounds of vibrant yellow and orange hues. I decided that spring, that instead of trying to grow more difficult varieties of flowers, I would concentrate on what was successful. Marigolds are one of the easiest flowers to grow. All they need is full sun and a rich, well-drained soil.

Getting Started

Marigolds can be started indoors. A growing kit from your local home and garden center is all that is needed. I like to use containers saved over the winter. Egg cartons, yogurt, and egg substitute containers are my favorites. Fill the containers with potting mix, sow a few seeds in each and add a little water. Be sure not to over- water, but the medium should be kept moist. A few holes in the bottom of each container and a tray to catch the excess water, and you are in business. Follow the directions on the seed packet.
Start your seeds about six to eight weeks before the last frost in your area. If your not sure when that is, just call your local garden center, they'll be happy to tell you. Any warm, bright spot will provide enough sunlight to keep things growing. You can grow nice, full seedlings by providing additional artificial light. Any type of bulb will do. I found that the less high tech I keep it, the more fun and satisfaction I get from the whole growing experience.

Marigolds can also be purchased as seedlings from a nursery and planted directly into the garden after the last frost of the season. Be sure to pinch off all the blooms to encourage healthy root growth. Many organic gardeners use compost as fertilizer, and a barrier against weeds when planting seedlings.

If you don't mind waiting for mid season flowers, marigolds can be sown directly into the garden after the ground warms. Cover the seeds with inch of soil, and thin the plants from 8 to 15 inches as they emerge. Keep the area moist, but don't over-water.

Caring for your Marigolds

Marigolds require little care. Regular watering and fertilizer every six weeks or so will keep them happy and growing. Pinching

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