African Marigold
Giant Yellow Marigold is a towering F1 hybrid that brings drama and cutting-garden sophistication to summer borders. Rising 4 to 6 feet tall with sturdy, strong stems, this Tagetes erecta produces the oversized golden blooms that define marigold elegance. Expect flowers in 70 to 90 days from seed, with blooms arriving reliably from June through August in hardiness zones 3 and warmer. The robust bush form and impressive height make it equally at home massed in garden beds or gathered for the vase, while its proven deer resistance and pollinator appeal ensure a vibrant, pest-free display.
Full Sun
Moderate
3-3
72in H x 36in W
Annual
Moderate
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This is marigold breeding at its finest, a hybrid selected specifically for the strong, cutting-quality stems that traditional dwarf varieties simply cannot offer. The giant yellow flowers open fully with tight, jewel-like centers, perfect for floral arrangements or garden impact. Its height commands attention without looking ungainly, and the self-sowing habit means you can let nature extend the show into fall. Few flowers combine such architectural presence with the carefree reliability and pollinator magnetism that make marigolds beloved by every gardener from beginners to experts.
Giant Yellow Marigold shines in cut-flower arrangements, where its tall stems and substantial blooms elevate simple bunches into something gallery-worthy. Mass plantings create dramatic golden backdrops in borders and beds, while its compact 36-inch width keeps the form refined rather than sprawling. The variety thrives in containers and window boxes, bringing height and color to patios, and self-sows readily if you let flowers mature and drop seed.
Sow seeds indoors 8 to 12 weeks before your planting-out date (after danger of frost). For 72-cell flats or standard seedling containers, cover seeds lightly or sow just 1/8 inch deep. To boost germination, place seeds in moist vermiculite and chill in the refrigerator for 2 to 4 weeks before sowing. After the chill period, sow into flats and maintain a steady temperature of 68 to 70°F. Expect sprouting in 14 to 30 days. If timing flowering in packs is your goal, count back 8 weeks from your desired first-bloom date.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed, spacing them 8 inches apart. Harden off plants gradually to sun and outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days before final planting.
Direct seeding is possible but not recommended by catalog sources. If you choose to direct sow, plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and keep soil consistently moist until sprouting.
Cut flowers when they are fully open but still have tight centers, typically in mid to late summer once consistent blooms arrive. Cut stems in early morning when stems are hydrated, leaving at least 6 to 8 inches of stem on the plant to encourage continued branching and reblooming. Marigold flowers continue to develop after cutting and open further in the vase.
Pinch growing tips when seedlings are young or shortly after transplanting to encourage bushier branching and sturdier stems. This extra step pays dividends in cut-flower quality and overall plant structure. Remove spent flower heads to extend blooming, though allowing some flowers to mature and self-sow adds to next season's show.
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