"Grow Your Own Marigolds"
But there are many other varieties available and as they make a wonderful border and take up little space, it's worth growing a few different varieties in the garden.
Plants can be bought at local garden centres a little later in the year, or you can start them from seed. They germinate fairly well and should be kept warm until the seedlings are large enough to go outside in the garden. Fill well drained seed trays or pots with fresh potting or seed compost and sow seed in early spring. Check on your seed packet for manufacturers growing recommendations for your area and particular variety of marigold. Seed can be sown outside but will need protecting with a cloche or kept in a warm greenhouse. Water to keep the compost damp but not too wet.
If you live in the UK this link will take you directly to the marigold pages Marigolds in the UK at Thompson and Morgan This is the US link Thompson and Morgan US For all other countries start from their homepage! Thompson and
Morgan Homepage
When your seedlings are large enough to handle and all danger of a frost has passed, they can be planted outside. Choose sunny spots wherver possible. Plant as a border or place individual plants around the garden. The bright flowers attract bees to the garden. Allow about 9 inches ( 20-25cm.) of growing space for each plant.
Keep weed free and water in dry weather and watch out for slugs when your plants are small. Pick flowers regularly for use in the kitchen or to brighten up your home. Picking flowers seems to encourage the plants to produce more. Leave a few flowers to develop seed. You may be able to collect the seeds and use the following year. In some milder climates, plants will self-seed without any attention at all!
 Happy Gardening! More "Garden Flowers" Reading
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