Marigold Crackerjack Mix - 50 Seeds

Marigold Crackerjack Mix (Tagetes patula) is a dwarf French marigold variety that produces bright lemon-yellow blooms with a compact, bushy growth habit. The flowers are double-petaled, 3–5 cm in diameter, and provide a cheerful, continuous display from early summer until the first frost.

This variety grows to a height of about 20–30 cm with a spread of 25–35 cm, making it ideal for borders, containers, rock gardens, and edging pathways. Marigolds are an easy-to-grow annual known for its heat tolerance, pest-repelling properties, and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Additionally, marigolds are widely used in companion planting due to their ability to repel nematodes, aphids, and other garden pests.

 

Growing Guide

Soil Requirements

Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil.

Can tolerate poor, sandy, or slightly dry soil but will thrive best in loamy soil with good drainage.

Ideal soil pH: 6.0–7.5.

Avoid heavy clay soil unless amended with compost for better drainage.

Sunlight & Location

Requires full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) for the best blooms.

Can tolerate partial shade, but flowering may be reduced.

Perfect for borders, flower beds, containers, companion planting in vegetable gardens, and hanging baskets.

Heat- and drought-tolerant once established.

Planting & Germination

Indoor Sowing:

Start seeds 4–6 weeks before the last frost in seed trays or small pots.

Sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in a light potting mix.

Keep the soil moist but not soggy at a temperature of 18–22°C.

Germination occurs within 5–10 days.

Transplant outdoors once seedlings are 7–10 cm tall and after the last frost.

Direct Sowing (Recommended):

When: Sow seeds directly after the last frost when the soil has warmed to at least 15°C.

Spacing: Plant seeds 20–25 cm apart to allow for proper air circulation.

Depth: Sow seeds 0.5 cm deep, covering lightly with soil.

Keep soil evenly moist until seedlings emerge.

Watering

Water regularly but moderately—soil should be kept evenly moist, but not soggy.

Once established, marigolds are drought-tolerant and require less frequent watering.

Water at the base of the plant to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew and root rot.

Fertilization

Light feeding is sufficient.

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) at planting time.

Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it promotes leafy growth at the expense of flowers.

Maintenance & Pruning

Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering.

Trim back leggy stems to maintain a bushy, compact shape.

Marigolds self-seed, meaning they may return the next year if flowers are left to mature.

Pest & Disease Control

Marigolds deter aphids, whiteflies, and nematodes, making them an excellent companion plant for tomatoes, peppers, and beans.

Common Pests:

May attract spider mites and slugs—use organic insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.

Diseases:

Generally disease-resistant, but watch for powdery mildew and root rot in humid conditions—ensure good air circulation and well-drained soil.

Best Companion Plants:

Vegetables: Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, beans, potatoes.

Flowers & Herbs: Petunias, zinnias, basil, lavender.

Helps repel aphids, mosquitoes, cabbage worms, and nematodes.

Harvesting & Uses

Edible Flowers:

Marigold petals are edible and can be used in salads, teas, or as a garnish.

Has a slightly citrusy, tangy flavour.

Seed Collection:

Allow flowers to dry on the plant and collect seeds for planting next season.

 

Key Benefits of Growing Marigolds

Compact & bushy growth, perfect for small spaces and borders.
Bright lemon-yellow blooms, providing season-long colour.
Edible flowers, ideal for salads and herbal teas.
Drought-tolerant & low maintenance, great for beginners.
Pest-repelling properties, making it an ideal companion plant.

 

Would you like more companion planting suggestions or tips for encouraging maximum blooms?