How Many Marigold Seeds Per Square Foot, Per Hole or Per Pot?

There are many things you need to keep in mind when planning to plant marigolds. If you're not sure about the number of seeds you should put per square, per hole, and pot, you're on the right page! We did some research, and we got the answers for you. 

You can sow four marigold seeds per square foot, two to three seeds per hole on prepared soil, or one seed per 6-inch surface pot. The seedling needs space as they can grow up to 18 inches tall.

We will elaborate on the above information to help you achieve the best results. Are you wondering what kind of marigold you want and what you have in hand? We will also delve into that topic. Continue reading to learn more about marigolds. 

Banner with orange marigolds flowers (Tagetes erecta, African, Mexican, Aztec marigold) with green leaves, How Many Marigold Seeds Per Square Foot, Per Hole or Per Pot?

How many marigold seeds to plant per square, per hole, or per pot?

If you know the different types of marigolds, which we will discuss in the next section, you will be able to identify how many seeds are recommended per square, per hole, or per pot. You must also keep in mind some important details, like how much space each marigold needs. 

You will have to consider your pots before planting your marigolds. They do play an important role if you plan to grow potted marigolds.

At a depth of 1/2 inch, you can plant four marigold seeds per square foot outdoors under full sun. Prepared soil, on the other hand, can accommodate two to three marigold seeds per hole, planted at a distance of 6 to 12 inches apart.

One marigold seed is enough for a 6-inch surface area pot. But if you want to try sowing multiple seeds in one pot, you need to look into the space each plant needs. If you are planning to plant more to save space in your garden or to save time and effort, you can use a pot with 18 inches surface area, as shown in the example below.

Click here to get this 18-inch Lightweight Concrete Outdoor Round Planter on Amazon. 

If planting your marigolds directly in the ground, remember the space each seed needs to grow. Dwarf marigolds can grow to 12 inches tall; 4 marigold seeds are enough per square. Giant marigolds grow up to 2 feet tall; 1 seed is enough per square meter. 

What are the types of marigolds?

Here are a couple of types of marigolds that can be found around the world:

Dwarf Marigolds

Famously known as the French marigolds, this variety is called Dwarf marigolds based on their size, which is smaller than the African marigolds. They grow up to 6 to 12 inches tall. French marigolds usually come in warm shades of orange, yellow, or red. 

 

Click here to get this Dwarf French Marigold Seeds on Amazon.

Giant Marigolds

These are also known as African marigolds, though they are native to America. They are named Giant marigolds as they are bigger than the other marigolds. They grow up to 6 inches in diameter and are 1 to 2 feet tall. They are also known to be more tolerant to hot and dry conditions. 

 

Click here to get these Giant Crackerjack Marigold seeds on Amazon.

What is the best season for marigolds?

French marigolds background. Orange floral background

Another factor that you need to take into account is when you should start growing your marigolds. It is best to start growing marigolds during summer and fall because they need good sunlight and the right amount of shade from time to time.  

Dwarf marigolds can be planted from spring through mid-summer. For giant marigolds, since they mature and bloom slower, make sure to let frost pass before you plant them.

To learn more about the best season for marigolds, check out our post on When to Plant Marigolds

How To Take Care of Marigolds

Marigolds Mixed Color (Tagetes erecta, Mexican marigold, Aztec marigold, African marigold), marigold pot pl

The main ingredients in having vibrant and beautiful marigolds are the sun, water, and good soil. You have to ensure you have the quality environment needed for the plant. You can read our post about the best type of soil and more about taking care of marigolds. Make sure to follow our tips below for the best results. 

  • If you plan to grow your marigolds in a pot, make sure to leave a hole underneath and place the pot over a brick. This allows the water to escape without losing soil.
  • In planting marigold seeds, see to it that you don't go beyond 1/8 inch deep to prevent non-germination.
  • It is important to water the plant but don't soak them. Water them only until they feel wet or damp.

How long does it take to grow a marigold? 

Orange and yellow Marigold flowers in Public Park

Just like all other plants, marigolds take their time to grow. A marigold grows quickly and easily with enough attention and a good amount of sun and water every day. They also need to be shaded from time to time, especially dwarf marigolds.

Giant marigolds are more tolerant to hot and dry seasons. Most marigolds mature from 8 to 10 weeks, especially as they go through stages of growth. Marigolds usually mature and have their first to third leaves after seed germination and reach the flowering stage after vegetative growth.

Can I have a marigold indoors? 

Tagetes patula French marigold in bloom, yellow flowers, green leaves, pot plant full bloom

Marigolds are one of the most common and reliable bedding flowers. They have bright and vibrant colors that will surely complement your interior theme. You can grow your marigold indoors regardless of the weather condition outdoors, but take note that marigolds need good sunlight. So you can place them near a sunny window and a well-ventilated area.

Giant marigold needs outdoor blooming for enough sunlight. After 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost, you can put the plant indoors. 

In Closing

Banner with orange marigolds flowers (Tagetes erecta, African, Mexican, Aztec marigold) with green leaves

Marigolds are very beautiful and vibrant that they can beautify your home, indoors or outdoors. However, they also need the best attention for them to grow and bloom just how you want them to. Identifying how many seeds are needed for a square, a hole, or a pot varies based on what type of marigold you want to have is essential. Also, you should know which marigolds you are planting and how to take care of them. 

To discover more about marigolds, you might want to check out these other posts: 

8 Marigold Landscaping Ideas

Which Marigolds Are Not Edible/Toxic? [Comprehensive Guide]

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