How to Grow Marigold
Annual
Marigold can mean two rather different annual flowers in British gardens. French and African marigolds are Tagetes, tender or half-hardy bedding plants with warm yellow, orange and red blooms. Pot marigold is Calendula, a hardy annual. This guide focuses on Tagetes, while noting Calendula where helpful.
Planting
Sow Tagetes indoors from March to April in modules at 18 to 21 degrees C, or buy bedding plants in spring. Plant outside after the last spring frost, spacing compact French marigolds 20 to 25 cm apart and taller African types 35 to 45 cm apart. Harden off plants carefully. In the mild south this is often May, but wait until late May or early June in colder districts. Sow hardy pot marigolds direct from March to May instead.
Care
Give Tagetes full sun and free-draining soil, watering young plants and containers regularly in dry periods. Deadhead faded blooms to prolong flowering and remove damaged foliage for airflow. They are not hungry plants, so avoid excessive fertiliser. Check plants regularly for slug damage while young and keep container compost evenly moist rather than waterlogged.
Bloom time
Tagetes usually flower from June or July until the first frosts, depending on sowing date and summer warmth. Hardy pot marigolds can start earlier from spring sowings and may continue into autumn if deadheaded.
Garden uses
French marigolds make bright edging plants for beds, patio pots and window boxes. Taller African marigolds provide bold border colour and useful cutting stems. Pot marigolds suit relaxed cottage borders and cutting patches. Single-flowered choices can be useful to pollinators, and some appear on RHS Plants for Pollinators lists.
Tips
Read labels closely: Tagetes and Calendula have different hardiness and sowing times. Choose an AGM variety where available for proven performance. Plant several of one colour together for impact rather than scattering singles. Keep tender Tagetes protected from late cold snaps, particularly in exposed northern gardens.
Growing Marigold: frequently asked questions
How do I grow marigold in the UK?
Sow Tagetes indoors from March to April in modules at 18 to 21 degrees C, or buy bedding plants in spring.
When does marigold flower?
Tagetes usually flower from June or July until the first frosts, depending on sowing date and summer warmth.
How do I care for marigold?
Give Tagetes full sun and free-draining soil, watering young plants and containers regularly in dry periods.
General guidance for UK gardens. Timing and hardiness vary by region and season; the RHS or a local garden centre can advise for your area. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.