When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.
Marigolds are easygoing plants that bloom reliably, even in direct sunlight, punishing heat and poor to average soil. Although they are beautiful in the ground, growing marigolds in containers is a surefire way to enjoy this delightful plant. Read on to learn how to grow marigolds in containers.
Any type of marigold can be grown in containers, but keep in mind that some types, such as African marigolds, can reach heights of up to 3 feet (1 m.) and may be too large for standard containers. Most gardeners like to plant smaller container grown marigolds. For example, French marigolds are small, bushy plants that reach heights of only 6 to 18 inches (15 to 20 cm.), depending on the variety. They are available in orange, yellow, mahogany or bicolor, and in double or single blooms. Signet marigolds are another good choice for potted marigold plants. The bushy plants have attractive, lacy foliage and orange, yellow or rusty red blooms.
African marigolds are one of my favorite flowers to grow in pots. With their bright, cheerful blooms in shades of yellow, orange, and red, they instantly add a pop of color to any outdoor space. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about successfully growing these beautiful flowers in containers.
Selecting the Right Pot
The first step is choosing an appropriate pot. For African marigolds, I recommend at least a 10-inch diameter container This gives the long taproot plenty of room to spread out The pot should also be deep enough to accommodate the plant’s mature height of 1-3 feet.
Make sure the pot has drainage holes in the bottom to prevent soggy soil. I prefer terracotta or plastic pots over metal since they allow air circulation to the roots.
Best Soil for African Marigolds
African marigolds thrive in loose, well-draining soil. A general potting mix amended with compost or peat moss works perfectly. The soil should have a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0-7.0.
Before filling your pot, mix in a granular, slow-release fertilizer like Miracle-Gro Shake ‘n Feed. This will provide nutrients for the entire growing season
How to Plant African Marigold Seeds
You can start African marigold seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before your last spring frost date. Or direct sow them into pots outdoors once daytime temperatures reach 65°F.
Plant the large seeds 1⁄4 inch deep and 6-8 inches apart. Gently firm the soil and water thoroughly after planting.
Caring for African Marigolds in Pots
With just a bit of basic care, African marigolds are easy to grow successfully in containers:
-
Sun: Place pots in full sun, ideally 6 or more hours per day.
-
Water: Check soil moisture frequently, watering when the top inch becomes dry. Avoid wetting the foliage.
-
Fertilizer: One month after planting, begin applying a blooming plant fertilizer like Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Bloom Booster every 2-4 weeks.
-
Support: Add stakes or trellises for tall varieties that tend to flop over from heavy blooms.
Deadheading for More Flowers
Deadheading spent blooms is extremely beneficial for African marigolds. It redirects the plant’s energy into producing more flowers instead of forming seeds.
Snip off old blooms with pruners or scissors. For bushy plants, you can also shear them back by 1/3 after the first flush of summer flowers fade.
Common Pests and Diseases
African marigolds are pest-resistant, but aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies may appear. Hose off pests with water or use insecticidal soap sprays.
Overhead watering can lead to fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Improve air circulation between plants and avoid wetting the foliage.
Overwintering African Marigolds Indoors
In zones 2-9 where African marigolds are grown as annuals, you can dig up plants in fall and overwinter them indoors. Select your healthiest specimens and transplant into containers. Maintain under grow lights until spring.
The other option is collecting and storing ripe seeds from expired plants to sow next year.
Enjoying African Marigolds All Season
With bright, abundant blooms and easy maintenance, African marigolds are one of my top picks for potted plants. Follow this guide and you’ll be rewarded with vivid color in your containers from spring until fall frost. The beautiful flowers also make delightful cut arrangements. Growing African marigolds is a joy for gardeners at every experience level.
Caring for Marigolds in Pots
Don’t crowd potted marigold plants, as healthy marigolds require plenty of air circulation. One marigold is enough for a 6-inch (15 cm.) pot, but you can grow two or three in a 12-inch (30 cm.) pot, and five or more small plants in a large container with a diameter of 18 inches (45 cm.). Be sure the container has a drainage hole in the bottom. Use a good quality, lightweight potting mix. A handful of sand, perlite or vermiculite improves drainage. Place the pot where the marigold is exposed to at least six hours of sunlight. Water the marigold when the top 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm.) of soil is dry. Water deeply, then let the soil dry before watering again. Never allow the soil to remain soggy, as wet conditions invite root rot and other moisture-related diseases. Pinch the tips of newly planted marigolds once or twice to encourage bushy plants. Deadhead the plants regularly to trigger new blooms. Apply a water-soluble fertilizer every month, but don’t over-fertilize. Too much fertilizer or overly rich soil can produce weak plants with few blooms.
★ How to Grow Marigolds from Seed (A Complete Step by Step Guide)
FAQ
How do you care for African marigolds in pots?
How many African marigolds per pot?
What is the best way to plant marigolds in a pot?
Do African marigolds like sun or shade?
How do you grow African marigolds?
Before planting, loosen the soil with a garden fork or tiller and mix in compost or aged manure. The ideal pH range for growing African marigolds is between 6.0 and 7.0. To seed marigolds, plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart in rows or groups. Water the soil well after planting and keep it moist until the seeds germinate.
How long do African marigold plants take to grow?
African marigold plants propagate easily from seed started indoors four to six weeks before last frost date or sown directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Seeds usually germinate in 4 to 14 days. African marigold plants can also be purchased at most garden centers in the spring.
When should I plant African marigolds?
Plant African marigolds in the spring after the danger of frost has passed. You can sow seeds directly in the ground once the soil is warm or—even better—start them indoors about 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost. If planting seedlings, space them about 10 to 12 inches apart and water thoroughly.
Can African marigolds grow in containers?
African marigolds grow easily in containers, but you will want to be sure to choose a pot with good drainage that is at least 10 inches in diameter and deep enough to allow staking. It’s also a good idea to choose a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent the tall plants from tipping over.