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Marigold

Tagetes erecta

FlowersToxic

Classic companion plant whose scent repels aphids and whiteflies. Root secretions also help suppress soil nematodes.

Overview

SunFull Sun
WaterLowCalculate watering amount
Height15–50 cm
Spread25 cm
Spacing30 cm
Row Spacing45 cm
Germination5–8 days
To Harvest45–65 days

Companion Planting

Bad Companions

None

Toxicity

SeverityMildly toxic
Toxic toDogs, Cats

ASPCA lists Tagetes as mildly toxic to dogs and cats; ingestion may cause gastrointestinal irritation such as vomiting or drooling. Generally non-toxic to humans, though sap can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

Planting Tips

LocationFull sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day); tolerates light afternoon shade in hot climates.
SoilWell-drained, moderately fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5; tolerates poor soil but avoid heavy, waterlogged ground.
Sowing Depth0.5 cm
Planting Depth5 cm
WateringWater at the base of the plant and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

1 cm of water per m² equals 10 liters. Use the Watering Calculator for exact amounts.

FertilizingApply a balanced, dilute liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks; avoid high-nitrogen feeds which promote foliage at the expense of blooms.

Care Tip: Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season.

Common Pests

Aphids

Symptoms: Curled or distorted leaves, sticky honeydew residue, and stunted growth on shoot tips.

Treatment: Spray with a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap; introduce ladybugs as biological control.

Prevention: Encourage beneficial insects and avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization which produces soft growth attractive to aphids.

Spider Mites

Symptoms: Fine webbing on undersides of leaves, stippled or yellowing foliage, and leaf drop in severe infestations.

Treatment: Spray foliage with water to dislodge mites; apply neem oil or miticide for heavy infestations.

Prevention: Maintain adequate humidity around plants and avoid prolonged dry, dusty conditions.

Slugs and Snails

Symptoms: Irregular holes chewed in leaves and petals, often accompanied by silvery slime trails.

Treatment: Hand-pick at dusk or use iron-phosphate-based slug pellets around affected plants.

Prevention: Remove garden debris that provides hiding places and use copper tape or barriers around beds.

Common Diseases

Powdery Mildew

Symptoms: White, powdery fungal coating on leaves and stems, leading to yellowing and premature leaf drop.

Treatment: Remove affected foliage and apply a fungicide such as sulfur spray or neem oil.

Prevention: Ensure good air circulation by proper spacing and avoid overhead watering.

Botrytis Blight (Gray Mold)

Symptoms: Gray, fuzzy mold on flowers and leaves, causing petals to brown and rot, especially in wet weather.

Treatment: Remove and discard infected plant parts promptly; apply a copper-based fungicide if needed.

Prevention: Avoid overcrowding, water at soil level, and remove spent blooms before they decay.

Root Rot (Pythium/Phytophthora)

Symptoms: Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing lower leaves, and brown or mushy roots when inspected.

Treatment: Remove affected plants, improve drainage, and avoid replanting in the same spot without amending soil.

Prevention: Plant in well-drained soil, avoid overwatering, and use raised beds in areas with heavy clay.