Flowers are loved for their beauty. There are simply beautiful shades of yellow, pink, salmon, blue, white, red, orange and purple blooming everywhere as the Easter season is upon us. All bulbs and annuals are also in full bloom presently.
Tagetes commonly called Marigold, originated from Mexico and is found throughout South America. No annual is more cheerful than Marigold. They are several varieties, the most popular being:-
1. French Dwarf Double Mixed with orange, red and lemon flowers
2. African Sahara Mixed with orange and lemon flowers
Both are hardy annuals that would last approximately 3-6 months. They are ideal for pots, plant boxes, patio displays and bedding borders.
Today, we are going to look at how to grow Marigolds.
Preparing the soil:-
Pour Pro Mix into a container and add water to moisten. Let the Pro Mix stand for 15 minutes. Fill a seedling tray or small pots with Pro Mix and sow seeds into each hole. Cover lightly with a thin layer of Pro Mix. Lightly water with a watering can with a fine rose nozzle or mist with a spray bottle.
Seedlings will appear in 14 to21 days. When they are approximately 2 inches in height, transplant them into suitable containers using potting soil.
Fertilize with Miracle Gro All Purpose once per week. In roughly 4 to 6 weeks Marigolds will begin to flower. Remember to dead-head the flowers regularly to prolong the flowering season, and try to keep the soil weed free.
Planting Marigolds have proven to be useful. Your flower and vegetable garden would thank you for them as they help where nematode infestation has been a problem. They also repel insects.
