African Marigold
Crackerjack African Marigold is a bold, commanding flower that brings vibrant color and substantial presence to any garden. Growing 24 to 36 inches tall, this Tagetes erecta cultivar demands full sun and rewards patient gardeners with abundant blooms throughout the growing season. Starting seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before your last frost date, then transplanting outside once soil warms to 70, 80°F, sets these marigolds up for success. The result is a stunning, reliable performer that transforms garden beds and containers into waves of golden color.
Full Sun
Moderate
9-11
36in H x ?in W
Annual
Moderate
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Crackerjack African Marigold stands out for its impressive stature and prolific flowering habit. This variety thrives in full sun conditions and develops into a substantial plant reaching nearly three feet tall, making it perfect for creating visual impact in borders or as a focal point. The seed-starting window is straightforward: sow indoors in early spring and transplant once conditions warm, allowing the plant to establish strong roots before summer heat arrives. It's a variety that rewards attention to timing and sunlight with abundant, long-lasting blooms.
Crackerjack African Marigold is grown primarily as an ornamental flower for garden beds, borders, and containers. Its tall stature and abundant blooms make it an excellent choice for creating bold color statements in landscape designs and cut flower arrangements.
Start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before your average last frost date. Sow seeds at a depth of 1/4 inch in seed-starting mix and maintain soil temperature between 70–80°F for reliable germination. This recommended method gives seedlings time to develop strong root systems and reach transplant size before moving them outdoors.
Transplant seedlings outdoors 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date, when soil temperature has reached 70–80°F. Space plants approximately 18 inches apart to allow adequate room for mature growth and air circulation. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over several days before transplanting.
Direct sow seeds outside 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date, when soil temperature reaches 70–80°F.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly throughout the growing season to encourage continuous blooming and maintain a fuller, bushier plant shape. Pinching back the growing tips when plants are young can also promote branching and a more compact, stocky form.
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