A profusion of petite single flowers appear on top of the soft and lacey light green foliage. Unlike other types of marigolds, a lovely citrusy scent perfumes the air around them. Beneficial insects are attracted to them, and one of our favorite ways to grow these is to plant 5-7 seedlings in a circle creating a bushy shrub-like appearance. Flower petals are edible and are used to liven up salads and other dishes. Use in beds, borders, and containers.

25 seeds

PLANTING

Tagetestenuifolia

Annual

Germination:7-10 days

Germination Temperature:Optimum soil temperatures 70-75F.

Seed Planting Depth:Sow on the surface and lightly cover

Starting Indoors:Start indoors 4-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide 70-75F 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:Mounded

Height and Width:12-16 x 10-12

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.