Cracker Jack African Marigold Seeds

African Marigold seeds can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the final  frost  date in your area, or directly outdoors when the soil has warmed up and the threat of frost has passed. Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep, if deeper, the germination rate significantly reduces. Keep the soil at 70-80°F with good moisture and under light, and  crackerjack African Marigold seeds sprout in 7-14 days. Mix is easy to germinate, so crackerjack Marigold seeds are a good choice if you are new to growing annuals from seed. You shouldn’t rush to get African Marigold seeds into the ground. Harden them off for at least 5-7, as a cold shock at this stage sets them back by weeks.

6 hours of direct full sun is a must for African Marigolds, otherwise the plant stretches, weakens, and blooms poorly. Tagetes erecta Marigold is more resistant to clay soils and droughts than most annuals, but only after it is established. For the first two weeks after transplanting, water consistently and do not allow the soil to dry out completely. After that, water moderately. Don't water overhead flowers, as wet leaves cause powdery mildew and leaf spot.

Spacing is very important for this particular plant. Spacing at 12 inches between plants and 12-18 inches between rows ensures good air circulation to keep disease pressures low through humid summers. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to extend blooming time, otherwise the plant puts all its energy into seed production. Fertilize monthly with a slow-release fertilizer — nothing too rich, just enough to keep them productive through a long growing season. At the end of the season, healthy plants can be turned into the soil rather than pulled: Tagetes erecta breaks down into useful organic compost and its root compounds are effective at controlling nematodes