French marigolds (Tagetes patula) are easy to grow and care for, and they are a popular choice for gardeners because of their bright, cheerful blooms and their ability to repel pests. Here are some tips for sowing and growing French marigolds:
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Start Indoors: You can start your French marigold seeds indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before your last frost date. Sow the seeds in a seed-starting mix, and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The ideal temperature for germination is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Transplant Outside: Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and are about 2-3 inches tall, they are ready to be transplanted outdoors. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
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Watering: Water your French marigolds deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overhead watering, as this can cause the leaves to rot.
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Fertilizing: French marigolds are not heavy feeders, but you can fertilize them once a month with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and abundant blooms.
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Deadheading: To encourage your French marigolds to bloom continuously throughout the growing season, deadhead them regularly. This means removing the spent flowers before they have a chance to set seed.
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Pests and Diseases: French marigolds are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but you may occasionally encounter problems with spider mites, aphids, or powdery mildew. If you notice any of these issues, treat them promptly with an appropriate organic or chemical control.
Overall, French marigolds are a great choice for beginning gardeners or anyone looking for an easy-to-grow annual with a lot of visual impact.