Growing marigolds is quite easy and effortless. Find out tips on how to plant or grow marigolds.

How To Plant Marigolds

Marigolds are amongst those plants that are easy to grow. They are also lasting plants that appear quite beautiful, no mater where they are planted. Being annuals, they do not grow themselves year after year. In effect, marigolds need to be replanted every year. Apart from being beautiful, marigolds are even beneficial in many ways. They emit a specific kind of smell, which keep the insects away as they find it offensive. Thus, they can be grown in the vicinity of plants that are prone to be harmed by insects, such as tomatoes. Marigolds are usually orange or bright yellow in color and are available in various sizes. As growing them does not require much effort, they can be planted year after year, to reap the benefits. To know how to grow Marigolds, read on.
 
How to Plant Marigolds 
  • If you wish to start growing marigolds in spring, sow them indoors, particularly six to eight weeks before your area’s last frost date. If you are fine with later blooms, sow them after the last frost date.
  • If you are planting seeds, sow them directly in the ground, covering them with about ¼ inch of soil. Space them 8 to 18 inches apart, depending on the variety.
  • While buying plants, remember to choose only healthy, green plants that are free from signs of wilting or disease. The plants should have plenty of leaves. Moreover, it's good if they don't have any flower, as this will divert the early energy into root development, rather than flowering.
  • While planting marigold seedlings, remember to sow them at the spot that receives full sun and has a rich, well-drained soil.
  • The seedlings should be placed 8 to 18 inches apart, depending on the variety. Ward off any flower while sowing, to redirect the plants' energy to the roots. This will ensure long-term health and better flowering.
  • After this, cover them with mulch to prevent weeds and preserve moisture.
  • Make sure you fertilize marigolds plants every four to six weeks. On the contrary, you can also use organic gardeners to work in plenty of compost at planting time.
  • Nip or snap off depleted flowers to delay flowering.
  • In autumn, after the frost blackens the leaves; pull up the plants and discard them.

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