African Marigold Seeds Tagetes erecta – Heirloom Drought-Tolerant Giant Blooms for Borders Cut Flowers

Description African Marigold Tagetes erecta – Large-flowered African marigold with robust, double blooms in rich gold and orange Tall, heat-loving annual with huge double blooms in shades of gold, orange, and lemon yellow. Excellent for cut flowers, garden borders, and natural pest control. Easy to grow from seed and blooms prolifically from early summer until frost. Common Name: African Marigold, Aztec Marigold Latin Name: Tagetes erecta Plant Height: 18–36 in (45–90 cm) Seeds per Gram: ≈ 300–400 seeds/gram Life Cycle: Annual (fast-growing, blooms first year) Available Color: Mixed: Golden Yellow, Orange, Cream Non-GMO · Open-pollinated · Heirloom type · Natural pest repellent for companion planting Botanical & Variety Details Common name(s)African Marigold, Aztec Marigold, American Marigold Latin nameTagetes erecta – classic large-flowered selection Mature height45–90 cm (18–36″) — strong, upright stems ideal for cutting Seeds per gram~300–400 seeds/gram (approx. 8,500–11,300 seeds/oz) Growth cycleAnnual — completes full life cycle in one season Ornamental periodEarly summer to first hard frost (continuous blooms with deadheading) Unique trait Large, fully double pom-pom flowers · Natural pest repellent (nematodes, whiteflies) · Exceptional companion plant African Marigold �� Best planting seasonSpring after last frost, or start indoors 4–6 weeks earlier. In mild climates (zones 9–11), sow in late summer for fall blooms. ��️ Ideal temperature70–75°F (21–24°C) for germination; thrives at 65–85°F (18–29°C) ☀️ Shade requirementFull sun is essential (minimum 6 hours of direct sun). Tolerates light afternoon shade in very hot climates, but blooms best in full sun. �� Sowing rate (per m²)1–1.5 grams per square meter (approx. 300–600 seeds/m²) for a dense, colorful display. �� Sowing depth¼ inch (6 mm) — cover lightly with fine soil; darkness aids germination. �� Water & careKeep evenly moist until germination (5–10 days). Moderately drought tolerant once established; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases. �� Spacing after thinningThin or transplant to 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) apart to allow good air circulation and sturdy growth. �� Days to bloomApprox. 60–70 days from sowing (first flowers appear early to mid-summer). Sun requirement: Full sun produces the strongest fragrance, richest colors, and sturdiest stems. In partial shade, plants become leggy with fewer flowers and diminished pest-repellent properties. Provide afternoon protection only in zones 9 . Pro density tip: For cut flower production, sow 1 g/m² and thin to 12″ apart. For mass landscape planting or companion planting beds, sow 1.5 g/m². Succession sow every 4 weeks for continuous color until frost. Sowing quick guide: Spring · Full sun · 1–1.5 g/m² · Cover ¼″ deep Germination 70–75°F | Full sun essential for bloom quality Harvest marigolds when blooms are fully open for fresh use; for dried arrangements, harvest after dew dries. Deer and rabbit resistant · Excellent for pollinator gardens, companion planting, and natural pest management.