Grow Your Own Marigolds from Seed!
Instructions:
1. Prepare Soil: Use well-draining soil enriched with compost or organic matter. Loosen the soil to a depth of about 6 inches.
2. Start Indoors (Optional): Marigold seeds can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Use seed trays or pots filled with seed-starting mix.
3. Plant Seeds: Plant marigold seeds about ΒΌ inch deep in the soil or seed trays. Water gently after planting.
4. Provide Warmth: Marigold seeds germinate best in warm temperatures. Keep seed trays in a warm location or use a heat mat to encourage germination.
5. Maintain Moisture: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water from the bottom of seed trays to avoid disturbing seeds.
6. Transplant: Once marigold seedlings have developed true leaves and are a few inches tall, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden after the last frost date.
7. Provide Sunlight: Marigolds prefer full sun, so choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
8. Watering: Water marigold plants regularly, especially during dry periods. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
9. Fertilize (Optional): Marigolds are relatively low-maintenance plants and usually don't require fertilizer. However, you can use a balanced fertilizer sparingly if needed.
10. Deadheading: Remove spent flowers (deadheading) to encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season.