Marigold Planting Guide
Bright, cheerful flowers that deter pests naturally
Best Time and Place to Plant Marigold
In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 10 to May 30. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Plant Marigold in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 70F to 85F, and enough room for 8 inches between plants and 12 inches between rows.
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | June 1 to June 30 | Varies |
| Zone 2 | May 20 to June 20 | Varies |
| Zone 3 | May 10 to June 15 | Varies |
| Zone 4 | May 1 to June 10 | Varies |
| Zone 5 | April 20 to June 5 | Varies |
| Zone 6 | April 15 to June 1 | Varies |
| Zone 7 | April 10 to May 30 | Varies |
| Zone 8 | April 1 to May 25 | Varies |
| Zone 9 | March 15 to May 20 | Varies |
| Zone 10 | March 1 to May 15 | Varies |
| Zone 11 | February 15 to May 1 | Varies |
| Zone 12 | February 1 to April 20 | Varies |
| Zone 13 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
Spacing and Care
- Planting depth: 0.25 inches deep
- Spacing: 8 inches apart, 12 inches between rows
- Soil temperature: 70F to 85F
- Sunlight: 6+ hours
- Watering: Water moderately, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
- Days to harvest: 50
Fertilization
- Low-nitrogen 5-10-10 synthetic: Monthly light feeding
- Compost organic: 1-2 inches worked into soil before planting
Companion Plants
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Squash
- Melons
Avoid Planting Near
- Beans
Harvest Signs
- Flowers are fully open and brightly colored
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers
- Best cut in morning after dew dries
- Cut stems just above a leaf node
FAQs
When should I plant Marigold?
Marigold planting depends on your USDA hardiness zone. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 10 to May 30. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
What is the best time of year to plant Marigold?
The best time of year to plant Marigold is when your zone planting window is open and soil temperatures are around 70F to 85F. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 10 to May 30. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Where is the best place to plant Marigold?
Plant Marigold in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 70F to 85F, and enough room for 8 inches between plants and 12 inches between rows.
How far apart should I plant Marigold?
Plant Marigold about 8 inches apart, with rows around 12 inches apart.
What grows well with Marigold?
Marigold is commonly paired with Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Squash, Melons.