French Marigold – Orange (Organic)
Tagetes patula
£2.34
Golden orange with red flowers that have a feathery fragrant foliage. Tagetes is a very rewarding plant. It is easy to grow and produces an abundance of stunning yellow to red coloured flowers. It also makes a great companion plant as the scent is disliked by flies and other insects and the roots produce secretions that have insecticidal and nematicidal (against harmful nematodes) effects. It can also be planted in pots or containers and will embellish gardens, doorsteps and balconies.
(Approximate seed count – 400)
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Seed Sowing
French Marigolds are annuals sown in a heated propagator from February to March, undercover from March to May, or directly outside in May. Sow seeds in modules or on the surface, press onto soil, and water with a fine spray. Germination takes around 5-14 days.
Transplanting
Ensure a weed-free seed bed. Best in sheltered sunny sites. Grow at bed edges to attract beneficial insects. Prefers moist, free-draining soil. Harden off, then transplant at 30 x 30 cm spacing.
Plant Care
Keep weed-free and watered in hot spells. Mulch for moisture retention and weed prevention. Deadhead for prolonged flowering. Pinch out for bushy growth.
Challenges
Pest and disease-free but protect seedlings from slugs. Dislikes cold weather; sow later in colder areas.
Harvest
Pick flower heads often to encourage continuous flowering into autumn. Pluck petals for fresh use or dry for later.
Culinary Ideas
French Marigold adds a complex flavor and golden color to rice; great as a garnish. Dried petals in herbal teas treat digestive problems. Use for an orange dye, known as poor man’s saffron.
Seed Saving
Collect brown seed heads, dry indoors, or pluck seeds from flower heads. Separate seeds before storing in a cool, dry place for up to 5 years.