Marigolds are an absolute must-have in any garden. Not only are they gorgeous, but they are also easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Plus, they’re a great way to add a bit of color to your garden. In order to get started with marigolds, you’ll need to get your hands on some marigold seeds.
Where To Buy Marigold Seeds
There are a few different places to purchase marigold seeds. You can find them at most home and garden stores, as well as online. If you’re looking for a more unique variety of marigold, you may want to try your local nursery or a mail-order seed company. These companies often have a wider selection of marigold seeds than the average store.
When To Plant Marigold Seeds
Marigold seeds should be planted in the spring, when the soil has warmed and all danger of frost has passed. Planting in the spring will also help ensure that your marigolds have plenty of time to grow and bloom before the cold weather sets in. It’s also important to take into account your climate when it comes to planting marigolds. If you live in an area with mild winters, you may be able to get away with planting in the fall as well.
How To Plant Marigold Seeds
Once you’ve decided when to plant your marigold seeds, it’s time to get started. Start by preparing the soil. The soil should be loosened and weeded before planting. It’s important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and not overly wet. Once the soil is ready, you can begin planting your marigold seeds. Plant them about a quarter of an inch deep, spaced about eight inches apart. Water the soil lightly after planting.
Care Of Marigold Seeds
After planting your marigold seeds, you’ll need to give them the proper care. Water the soil regularly, ensuring that it stays moist but not wet. You may also want to add a layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture. Make sure to keep the area free of weeds, and fertilize the plants every few weeks. If you live in an area that gets a lot of rain, you may want to invest in a rain barrel to help keep the soil from becoming waterlogged.
Harvesting Marigold Seeds
Once your marigolds have started to bloom, you can begin harvesting the seeds. Wait until the flowers have started to fade and the petals have fallen off. Then, carefully remove the seed heads and place them in a paper bag. Store them in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to plant the next crop of marigolds.
Using Marigold Seeds
Marigold seeds can be used in a variety of ways. They can be planted directly in the ground, or they can be started indoors in pots. You can also use them in crafts, such as homemade wreaths or potpourri. Marigold seeds can also be used in cooking, as they are high in antioxidants and have a mild, nutty flavor.
Pest Control With Marigolds
Marigolds are also a great way to keep pests away from your garden. The strong scent of marigolds can help to repel certain insects, such as aphids and whiteflies. You can also use marigolds to attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, which will help to keep your garden healthy.
Conclusion
Marigolds are an easy-to-care-for addition to any garden. Planting marigold seeds is simple, and with the proper care, they will provide you with plenty of beautiful blooms. Marigolds can also be used in a variety of ways, from crafts to pest control. So why not give marigolds a try in your garden this year?