Marigold – French – Bonanza

Marigold – French – Bonanza

• Growing Temp 65°F – 75°F

• Days to Maturity 55-60 days

Ease of Cultivation and uses: Marigold ‘French – Bonanza’ is a popular, easy-to-grow variety known for its early, abundant blooms and compact size. With its striking shades of yellow, orange, and red, it is an excellent choice for borders, containers, and flower beds. This marigold is also highly weather-tolerant, making it a dependable option for any garden. The flowers are edible and can be used to decorate dishes or added to salads for a burst of color.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant ‘French – Bonanza’ seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, when soil temperatures range between 65°F and 75°F. Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep, spacing them 6–8 inches apart in well-drained soil. Full sun is ideal for best growth. The seeds should germinate in 5–7 days. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged during the germination period. Once established, these marigolds are drought-tolerant and thrive with minimal maintenance.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To get an early start, sow ‘Bonanza’ seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Use seed trays with a light potting mix, placing seeds 1/4 inch deep. Keep the trays in a warm spot with temperatures around 70°F for optimal germination. Once seedlings have their true leaves and outdoor temperatures are warm, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 6–8 inches apart. Water well after transplanting to help them adjust to their new environment.

Harvesting: Marigold ‘French – Bonanza’ is ready for harvest when the blooms are fully open and vibrant in color. The best time to cut flowers is in the morning when they are fresh and hydrated. Snip the blooms at the base with clean scissors, and deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage new growth. This will ensure continuous flowering throughout the growing season. The flowers can be used for both culinary and decorative purposes, adding beauty to your garden and dishes alike.