GARDEN IDEAS
Growing Marigolds
Growing marigolds covers two areas of gardening really. Botanically speaking, marigolds are classified as a herb. The regular 'calendula officinalis' is the one to grow if you want to use the flowers in the kitchen.
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But there are many other varieties available and, as they make a wonderful border and take up little space, it's worth growing a few different varieties in the garden.
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How to:
Plants can be bought at local garden centres a little later in the year, or you can start them from seed. They germinate fairly well and should be kept warm until the seedlings are large enough to go outside in the garden.
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Fill well drained seed trays or pots with fresh potting or seed compost and sow seed in early spring. Check on your seed packet for manufacturer's growing recommendations for your area and particular variety of marigold. Seed can be sown outside but will need protecting with a cloche, or keep in a warm greenhouse until the weather warms up.
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Water to keep the compost damp but not too wet.
Thompson and Morgan have lots of marigolds including this stunning variety....
Marigold 'Pots of Gold' from Thompson & Morgan (UK)
Growing marigolds - The next step:
When your seedlings are large enough to handle and all danger of a frost has passed, they can be planted outside. Choose sunny spots wherever possible. Plant as a border or place individual plants around the garden.
Growing marigolds doesn't take up too much space in the garden but allow about 9 inches ( 20-25cm.) of growing space for each plant.
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The bright flowers attract bees to the garden, and in turn keep other plants pollinated. Pot marigolds are a herb and, like most herbs, are fairly resistant to bugs, although, I must stress that slugs do like young marigold plants. If you get the slug problem sorted though, there won't be many other bugs to worry about!
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Caring for your blooms:
Keep weed free and water in dry weather and watch out for slugs when your plants are small. Pick flowers regularly for use in the kitchen or to brighten up your home. Picking flowers seems to encourage the plants to produce more.
Leave a few flowers to develop seed. You may be able to collect the seeds and use the following year. In some milder climates, plants will self-seed without any attention at all!
Calendula officinalis (UK Link)
This is the pot marigold that is also classed as a herb - well worth a grow!