French Marigold
Tagetes patula • Asteraceae
🌱 Seed Category
Flower
🌍 Origin Region
Mexico and Central America
📅 Days to Maturity
50-60 days from sowing to first bloom.
🌡️ Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-11 as an annual; not frost-hardy.
About This Seed
Slender, needle-like black or dark brown seeds with a distinctive tan/white tufted 'paddle' at one end. The resulting plant is a compact, bushy annual featuring pinnate, fern-like dark green leaves and vibrant pom-pom or single-petal flowers in shades of orange, yellow, and mahogany.
Growing Information
Growing Season
Spring and Summer; sow after last frost
Germination
Germinates in 5-10 days at 70-75°F (21-24°C). Requires light to germinate; sow very shallowly. High germination rate usually exceeding 80%.
Planting Instructions
Depth: 1/16 to 1/8 inch. Spacing: 6-10 inches apart. Prefers well-draining garden soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost or direct sown.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun (minimum 6 hours). Moderate water needs; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Drought tolerant once established.
Companion Plants
Beneficial for tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, and roses to deter pests. Avoid planting near legumes (beans/peas) as they may inhibit growth.
Special Characteristics
Natural pest deterrent (contains thiophenes that repel nematodes), attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, edible petals, and excellent heat tolerance.