When to Plant and Harvest Marigold
Bright, cheerful flowers that deter pests naturally
Pets: Not on the ASPCA list. The pest-border marigold is Tagetes, which is not on the ASPCA list. Pot marigold (Calendula) is a different plant that ASPCA lists as non-toxic. Pet-Safe Garden Finder
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.
Related Planting Guides
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | June 1 to June 30 | Spring only |
| Zone 2 | May 20 to June 20 | Spring only |
| Zone 3 | May 10 to June 15 | Spring only |
| Zone 4 | May 1 to June 10 | Spring only |
| Zone 5 | April 20 to June 5 | Spring only |
| Zone 6 | April 15 to June 1 | Spring only |
| Zone 7 | April 10 to May 30 | Spring only |
| Zone 8 | April 1 to May 25 | Spring only |
| Zone 9 | March 15 to May 20 | Spring only |
| Zone 10 | March 1 to May 15 | Spring only |
| Zone 11 | February 15 to May 1 | Spring only |
| Zone 12 | February 1 to April 20 | Spring only |
| Zone 13 | Year-round | Year-round |
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
Check any pair, and see which pairings have research behind them, on the Companion Planting Desk.
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
Track picks and rate the season on the Harvest Log.
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.
How long does Marigold take to grow?
Marigold is typically ready to harvest in about 50 days under good conditions. Use the harvest signs below rather than the calendar alone.
How do I know when to harvest Marigold?
Harvest Marigold when flowers are fully open and brightly colored. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers Best cut in morning after dew dries