Today, we are going to look at how to grow marigolds. There are several varieties. The most popular are:-
1. French Dwarf Double Mixed – with orange, red and lemon flowers.
2. African Sahara Mixed – with orange and lemon flowers.
Both are half-hardy annuals (would last approximately six months), and they are ideal for pots, plant boxes, patio displays and bedding borders.
There are several popular brands of seeds from the UK and USA which are available locally.
Preparing the soil
Pour Pro Mix into a container and add water to moisten. Let the Pro Mix stand for 15 minutes. Fill seed trays with the Pro Mix and sow seed into each hole.
Cover lightly with a thin layer of Pro Mix. Lightly water using a watering can with a fine rose nozzle, or mist with a spray bottle. Seedlings will appear in 14-21 days. When they are large enough, transplant them into suitable containers.
Feed with All Purpose Miracle Gro once per week.
For those of you who would like to use garden soil or compost, just add some clean white sand and mix same together. Pass the mixture through a household sieve twice, until it resembles a fine layer of soil. Fill the seed trays and follow the guidelines above. In approximately 4 to 6 weeks the marigolds will begin to flower.
Remember to remove dead flowers regularly to prolong the flowering season, and keep the soil weed free.
Planting marigolds would also prove useful. Your flower and vegetable garden would thank you for it as it helps where nematode infestation has been a problem.
Until next week, happy gardening!
