Overview
- Common Name: Marigold
- Scientific Name: Tagetes erecta, Tagetes patula
- Plant Type: Annual flowering ornamental
- Uses: Garden decoration, natural pest repellent (especially against aphids, nematodes, and mosquitoes)
Best Varieties for the Philippines
| Variety | Features | Disadvantages | Typical Height |
|---|
| Tagetes erecta (African Marigold) | Large blooms (up to 7–8 cm / 3 inches), long sturdy stems, ideal for borders, garlands, and bouquets; thrives in full sun. | Less tolerant of heavy rain; tall plants may topple if not staked. | 60–90 cm (24–36 inches) |
| Tagetes patula (French Marigold) | Compact, bushy growth; small but vibrant flowers that bloom continuously; excellent for edging and pots. | Shorter lifespan and smaller blooms compared to African Marigolds. | 20–40 cm (8–16 inches) |
| Tagetes tenuifolia (Signet Marigold) | Produces masses of small, edible, citrus-scented blooms; highly heat- and drought-tolerant. | Less colorful and showy than other marigold species. | 25–35 cm (10–14 |
🟢 Best Choice: French Marigold (T. patula) — performs best in humid and hot Philippine climates.
Germination from Seeds
- Propagation Method: From seeds
- Seed Treatment: No need to soak or refrigerate. Direct sow or start in seed tray.
- Germination Time: 5–7 days
- Ideal Soil pH: 6.0–7.0 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy or sandy loam with compost
- Why: Prevents waterlogging that can rot roots and promotes root aeration.
- Planting Depth: 0.5–1 cm deep
- Light Exposure During Germination: Bright indirect light (avoid strong midday sun)
- Tip: Keep soil consistently moist, not soaked. Use spray mist until seedlings appear.
Transplanting
- When to Transplant: After 2–3 true leaves appear (10–14 days old)
- Spacing Between Plants: 25–30 cm apart for French, 40–50 cm for African type
- How Deep: Plant at same level as seedling base (do not bury deeper)
- Best Time to Transplant: Cloudy afternoon or early morning
- Sun Requirement: Full sun (6–8 hours/day) for best flowering
Growth & Soil Conditions
- Sunlight Exposure: Full sun preferred (they thrive in bright, dry conditions)
- Watering Needs: Moderate — water only when topsoil is dry
- Avoid: Roots soaking in water; causes root rot and fungal issues
- Ideal Soil Condition: Slightly sandy, well-drained, rich in compost
- Mulching: Helps maintain moisture and prevent weeds
Fertilizer Needs
| Stage | Fertilizer Type | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|
| Seedling / Young Plant | Diluted organic fertilizer or vermicast tea | Every 2 weeks | Root and leaf development |
| Growing / Vegetative | Balanced 14-14-14 or compost + rice hull ash | Every 3 weeks | Strong stems and foliage |
| Flowering Stage | High phosphorus (10-20-10 or bone meal) | Every 2–3 weeks | Promotes abundant blooms |
⚠️ Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen — it causes more leaves and fewer flowers.
Pruning & Maintenance
- Pinch back top shoots when the plant is 10–15 cm tall to encourage bushy growth.
- Deadhead (remove spent flowers) regularly to extend blooming.
- Support tall African marigolds with bamboo sticks to prevent bending.
Common Pests & Diseases
| Problem | Symptoms | Prevention / Control |
|---|
| Aphids & Whiteflies | Sticky residue on leaves | Spray neem oil or garlic soap solution weekly |
| Spider mites | Fine webbing, yellow spots | Increase humidity, mist leaves early morning |
| Powdery mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Avoid overhead watering; apply baking soda spray (1 tsp per liter water + few drops of dish soap) |
| Root rot | Wilting despite moist soil | Improve drainage; avoid overwatering |
🟡 Natural Tip: Plant marigolds near tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers — they repel nematodes and aphids naturally.
Flowering & Fruiting
- Days to Flower: 45–60 days from sowing
- Bloom Duration: Continuous flowering for 3–4 months
- Pollination: Insect-attracted (bees, butterflies)
- Harvest (for seed saving): When flower heads are fully dry and brown
Growth Conditions & Lifespan
- Lifespan: Annual (4–6 months total)
- Can Regrow From: Seeds only (cuttings possible but less common)
- Root Condition: Must not be soaked — prefers dry intervals between watering
- Soil: Slightly sandy to loam with compost
- Temperature Range: 20–32°C optimal
- Humidity: Prefers low to moderate humidity; avoid constant rain exposure
Best & Worst Planting Months (Philippine Climate)
| Season | Months | Recommendation |
|---|
| Dry Season | November – May | ✅ Best time for marigold — full blooms, fewer fungal issues |
| Rainy Season | June – October | ⚠️ Avoid heavy rainfall periods; can cause fungal diseases and root rot |
Additional Tips
- Companion plants: Tomatoes, basil, chili, eggplant
- Avoid planting with: Legumes (they dislike strong-smelling plants nearby)
- Seeds remain viable for up to 2 years when stored dry and cool.
- Great choice for border planting, pest management, and bright color contrast in vegetable gardens.