Discovery Series African Marigold

Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last expected spring frost. Sow seeds on the soil surface or just barely covered, as marigold seeds benefit from light for germination. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged at 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit until seedlings emerge, typically within 7 to 10 days. Provide bright light immediately after germination.

Harden off seedlings over 7 to 10 days by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before transplanting. Move to the garden after the last frost date when soil has warmed; marigolds are frost-sensitive annuals and perform best when planted after all danger of frost has passed. Space transplants 10 inches apart, with 34 inches between rows if planting in a formal arrangement.

Direct sow seeds in the garden after the last frost date once soil has warmed to at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Place seeds on prepared soil and press gently into contact; they may be left uncovered or barely covered with soil. Thin seedlings to 10 inches apart once they've developed their first true leaves.

Pinch back the growing tips of young plants when they reach 3 to 4 inches tall to encourage branching and a fuller, more compact mound shape. Deadheading spent flowers consistently throughout the season stimulates continuous bloom production and keeps plants tidy and vigorous.