French Marigold Flower Seeds Packet

1. Ornamental Gardening:

• Ideal for flower beds, borders, and edging pathways.
• Thrives in container gardens, hanging baskets, and window boxes.

2. Companion Planting & Pest Control:

• French Marigolds release natural compounds that repel aphids, nematodes, and whiteflies.
• Often planted alongside tomatoes, beans, cucumbers, and roses for pest prevention.

3. Pollinator & Beneficial Insect Support:

• Attracts bees, butterflies, and predatory insects like ladybugs.
• Provides nectar and pollen to support pollinators.

4. Soil Health Improvement:

• Suppresses soil-borne nematodes, making them valuable in crop rotations.
• Enhances soil fertility when decomposed into compost.

5. Medicinal & Cultural Uses:

• Used in herbal remedies for its antimicrobial properties.
• Often associated with Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico.

Light:

• Prefers full sun (6-8 hours per day).
• Tolerates partial shade, but flowering may be reduced.

Soil:

• Thrives in well-drained, fertile, loamy soil.
• Prefers a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.5).
• Avoids waterlogged conditions, which may cause root rot.

Watering:

• Requires moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

Temperature & Climate:

• Thrives in warm temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C).
• Frost-sensitive; should be planted after the last frost date.

Fertilization:

• Minimal fertilization is needed.
• Over-fertilization can result in excessive foliage with fewer flowers.
• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once in early growth.

Mulching:

• Apply a thin layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Avoid over-mulching to prevent excess moisture.

Deadheading & Pruning:

• Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
• Trim back leggy growth to maintain a compact shape.

Disease & Pest Prevention:

• Provide good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
• Watch for aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies; treat with neem oil if necessary.

Pests:

• Aphids – Can be controlled with insecticidal soap or water sprays.
• Spider Mites – Increase humidity and use neem oil if infestations occur.
• Whiteflies – Attracted to weakened plants; avoid over-fertilizing.

Diseases:

• Powdery Mildew – Prevent with proper spacing and air circulation.
• Root Rot – Ensure well-draining soil to avoid overwatering.