Crackerjack Marigold

Every time we grow this variety we marvel at how favorably the appearance compares to the hybrids, it only lacks their uniformity. Large 3 foot plus plants produce an abundance of 5 inch yellow and gold blooms throughout the summer. Fine background plant.  25 seeds     PLANTING Tagetes patula Annual  Germination: 7-10 days Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-75ºF. Seed Planting Depth: Sow on surface and lightly cover Starting Indoors: Start indoors 4-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide 70-75ºF soil temperature. Transplant after last frost, space 8-15" apart.  Sowing Outdoors: Starting a week or two before the last frost date into early summer. Sow a few seeds every 8-15", thin to the most robust seedlings, or sow seeds close together, 1 per inch, and when you thin the seedlings transplant them to other places in the garden.  Growth Habit: Upright Height and Width: 30-36” x 12-18” Spacing: 8-15" apart Light Needs:  Full sun Soil Needs:  Average, well-drained Approximate days to flower from seed: 60-70 days Uses: Flower beds, containers and planters Care: Water seedlings regularly until established. Pinch back plants when they are young for a bushier growth habit. Deadhead to prolong blooming. Amend soil with compost before sowing or transplanting or apply liquid fertilizer a few times a season.