Marigold – African – Taishan

Growing Temp 65°F – 80°F
Days to Maturity 60-70 days

Ease of Cultivation and uses: Marigold ‘African – Taishan’ is a compact, early-blooming variety known for its dense, sturdy flowers in vivid shades of yellow, orange, and gold. It is easy to grow and highly resistant to weather extremes, making it an excellent choice for beginner and experienced gardeners alike. The ‘Taishan’ marigold thrives in garden beds, containers, and landscapes, offering vibrant color and pest-repelling qualities. The flowers are also edible and can be used to add decorative flair to meals.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant ‘African – Taishan’ seeds outdoors after the last frost, once the soil temperature is consistently between 65°F and 80°F. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, spaced 8–12 inches apart in well-drained soil. Marigolds prefer full sun and will germinate within 5–10 days. Water regularly during germination and early growth stages, but avoid overwatering. These marigolds are drought-tolerant once established and thrive with minimal care.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To get a head start on the growing season, sow ‘Taishan’ seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Use a seed-starting mix and plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in trays. Maintain a temperature of around 70°F for optimal germination. Once seedlings develop their first true leaves and outdoor temperatures have warmed, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 8–12 inches apart. Water thoroughly after planting to help establish strong roots.

Harvesting: Marigold ‘African – Taishan’ flowers are ready to harvest when fully open and displaying bright, vibrant colors. The best time to cut the flowers is in the morning when they are freshest. Snip the blooms at the base with clean scissors, and remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. These marigolds will bloom throughout the season, especially with regular deadheading, keeping your garden colorful for longer. The flowers can be used both fresh and dried for culinary or decorative purposes.