Marigold – French – Durango

Growing Temp 65°F – 80°F
Days to Maturity 55-65 days

Ease of Cultivation and uses: Marigold ‘French – Durango’ is a robust, large-flowered variety with ruffled blooms in rich shades of orange, red, and yellow. It is very easy to grow, making it a popular choice for beginner gardeners. ‘Durango’ thrives in a variety of conditions, tolerating both heat and poor soil. These marigolds are excellent for garden borders, pots, and landscapes, providing season-long color. Additionally, the flowers are edible, adding a decorative touch to dishes and salads.

Direct Sowing: Sow ‘French – Durango’ seeds outdoors after the last frost, when the soil has warmed to 65°F or above. Plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep, spacing them 6–8 inches apart in well-drained soil with full sun. The seeds will germinate in 5–7 days, and the plants will establish quickly. Water consistently during germination, but reduce watering once the plants are established as they are drought-tolerant. Marigolds are low maintenance and ideal for gardeners looking for a hassle-free plant.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To start ‘Durango’ marigolds indoors, sow seeds 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Use seed trays and place seeds 1/4 inch deep in a light potting mix. Maintain a temperature of 70°F for optimal germination. Once the seedlings have their true leaves and outdoor temperatures have warmed, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 6–8 inches apart. Water thoroughly after transplanting to help establish strong roots.

Harvesting: Marigold ‘French – Durango’ flowers are ready to harvest when fully open and showing vibrant colors. Cut the flowers in the morning with clean scissors, snipping them at the base of the stem. Regular deadheading will encourage new blooms and extend the flowering season. These marigolds can be used fresh for decoration or dried for culinary uses, and their long-lasting blooms will keep your garden looking colorful throughout the season.