Marigolds originated in the Americas but naturalized in portions of India, North Africa and Europe as early as the 16th century. The native growing range is from the southwestern United States through northern Argentina. It is thought that the greatest diversity of marigolds exists in south-central Mexico.
Marigold flowers have a deep history in many parts of the world. The flower heads are often used for wedding and religious ceremonies in India and Nepal. In Mexico, marigolds are used to decorate altars and graves of loved ones in the celebration of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Throughout history, multiple cultures have used marigold petals as herbal medication for ailments related to bruising, fever, intestinal and stomach problems, kidney illnesses and more. More recently, marigolds have been studied for their potential fungicidal, bactericidal and insecticidal activities as natural pesticides.
These flowers are commonly grown in home and commercial landscapes blooming spring, summer and into early fall. Tagetes, the genus this flower belongs to, has 56 named species with many cultivars within each species. If you are interested in growing these flowers as a cut flower, select long-stemmed cultivars. When purchasing seeds look for language that denotes long stems, cut flower or upright to describe the cultivar.
Marigolds are most often purchased as seeds. Always use reputable suppliers to ensure you are receiving the correct cultivar and seeds that have been stored correctly. If you do not use all the seeds in this season’s planting, store the remaining supply in a paper envelope, properly labeled in the refrigerator or freezer. Marigolds will grow throughout the United States but only during warmer months. They thrive in warm climates, blooming longer in U.S. Department of Agriculture Zones 10 and higher but are a perfectly acceptable cut flower to grow in Louisiana’s USDA Zones 8 through 10. Excessive rain, humidity and cold will damage the blooms. Marigolds are typically planted in the spring and summer months. If starting seed in a greenhouse, plant them four weeks before the last frost. In south Louisiana, this is typically March 15 and in North Louisiana, April 1. Seeds should be planted in a light potting soil covered with coarse vermiculite. A light weekly application of liquid fertilizer may be added after the first true leaves have unfolded. Prior to planting outdoors, harden seedlings off (bring the seedlings outdoors out of direct sunlight in their greenhouse trays for three to seven days) and then transplant them into the soil only after the danger of frost has passed.
Marigolds prefer well-drained soil and full sun. An initial preplant application of fertilizer with a balance of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium is recommended, but further fertilizer applications are not always necessary.
Marigold varieties used for cut flowers grown in Louisiana State University AgCenter/ Mississippi State University trials include Bindi Orange, Bali Yellow and White Swan, all of which grow very quickly. Space transplants 18 inches apart along the row. Marigold seedlings can be double drilled. Cut flower marigolds have exceptionally long stems, sometimes up to 35 inches long. While these plants are bushy in form, they still require trellising. In demonstration plots at the LSU AgCenter and MSU, the Florida weave method was used to hold flowers upright. In demonstration plots where the marigolds were not trellised, heavy rains tended to beat down the plants and more stem breakage occurred.
Weed management is critical. Marigolds planted in the early spring can be planted on black plastic mulch, however, if planting later in the season, white plastic mulch is recommended. Cultivation and the use of weed cutting machinery around non-mulched plots may result in damaged or broken stems if not carefully conducted. Herbicides, such as Treflan, Poast and Fusillade, may be helpful in weed control if considered as acceptable farming practices for your farm. When applying pesticides, please follow all directions on the label.
Pests noted in the LSU AgCenter demonstration plots included slugs and snails. Products such as iron phosphate baits can be applied in the row middles. These baits attract snails and slugs with their smell. Applying baits early in the day and before rains are not recommended practices. Snails and slugs feed more heavily in the evening, so applications are more effective when done closer to dusk.
Diseases were not a problem in the 2021 and 2022 LSU AgCenter plots, even with high precipitation rates. However, the raindrops did cause browning and bruising of petals. Harvest heavily before hard rains and keep flowers in a cooler until sold or used in a design.
Are you looking for a simple yet beautiful way to liven up your home or office? Consider using a hanging African marigold flower! With their vibrant golden blooms and sweet scent, these flowers can instantly brighten any room.
In this article, we’ll explore why African marigolds make for such great hanging plants and how you can use them to create a fresh, uplifting atmosphere. Read on to learn more about the benefits of and tips for incorporating hanging African marigolds into your space.
African marigolds, scientifically known as Tagetes erecta, are native to Mexico and Central America They belong to the daisy family and are characterized by their large, pom-pom like flower heads that come in bold shades of orange, yellow, and red
These hardy annual blooms have a wonderfully unique, musky aroma that has hints of citrus and spice. Unlike some flowering plants, they bloom abundantly throughout the growing season, from summer all the way until fall frost
Beyond their visual beauty, African marigolds have a host of benefits:
- They attract pollinators like butterflies and bees
- They repel unwanted pests
- They can improve indoor air quality
- Their cheery appearance boosts mood
With all these pluses, it’s easy to see why marigolds have become a beloved garden flower around the world. Hanging them takes their appeal up another notch!
Why Hang African Marigolds?
Hanging African marigolds in baskets or pots allows them to display their flowers to full effect as they cascade gracefully downward. The bright golden globes dangling amongst the green foliage create a stunning impression that brings life and color to any space.
In addition to their aesthetic value, suspending African marigolds provides other advantages:
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Maximizes growth: Hanging marigolds tend to grow larger and fuller since their stems and leaves sprawl freely without crowding.
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Elevates aromas: Hung near windows, walkways or seating areas, the flowers’ scent can waft through the air.
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Deters pests: Positioned by doorways or in outdoor areas, the marigolds’ pest-repelling properties have a greater range.
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Adds height: Hanging marigolds add visual interest and warmth at different levels, like raining sunshine down from above!
Whether indoors or out, hanging African marigolds are sure to enliven your space with their vibrant presence and sweet perfume. Let’s look at how to go about displaying them this way.
Tips for Hanging African Marigolds
Installing hanging African marigolds is simple. Follow these tips for success:
Select a High-Quality Container
Choose a hanging basket or pot at least 10-12 inches wide and with drainage holes. This gives marigold roots ample room to spread out. Sturdy materials like ceramic or wire baskets work best.
Use Proper Soil
Make sure soil is fresh, rich, and fast-draining to prevent root rot. Potting mixes for flowers or vegetables are ideal.
Pick Healthy Plant Specimens
Look for marigold plants with green leaves and healthy white roots if planting from nursery starts. Dry, wilted or rootbound plants should be avoided.
Include Support Structures
Inserting a trellis into the planter provides stems something firm to climb up and produces fuller growth.
Water Well Initially
Water thoroughly after planting marigolds to remove any air pockets and saturate the soil. Don’t let it dry out completely in early weeks.
Position for Sunlight
Hang marigolds in a sunny locale. They need at least 6 hours of direct sun daily to thrive. South or west facing spots are best.
Display for Scent
Place marigolds where their fragrance can be appreciated. Near seating, walkways or open windows allows aromas to circulate.
With the right conditions and care, your hanging marigolds will flourish! Let’s look now at how to maintain their health and appearance.
Caring for Hanging African Marigolds
While generally low-maintenance, providing some basic care will keep hanging African marigolds looking their best:
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Water when top inch of soil dries: About 1-2 times per week. Take care not to overwater.
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Apply liquid fertilizer monthly: Look for options formulated for blooming plants.
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Groom spent flowers: Deadhead faded blooms to encourage new growth.
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Monitor for pests: Watch for signs of insects like aphids, spraying leaves with neem oil or insecticidal soap if needed.
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Tie up growth if needed: Use soft twine to gently tie back unruly stems and foliage.
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Move plants indoors before frost: Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) will kill marigolds.
With warm temperatures and adequate moisture, marigolds will keep pumping out flowers. Next let’s go over where and how to showcase them.
Best Places to Hang African Marigolds
The portability of hanging marigolds means you can creatively display them in diverse spots:
Indoor Areas
- Sunrooms or windows
- Entryways or hallways
- Patios or decks
- Dining spaces
- Living rooms
Outdoor Zones
- Front porches
- Back patios or decks
- Pergolas or arbors
- Next to seating areas
- Near vegetable gardens
Tips for Hanging
- Use strong hooks, chains, or other hardware to securely affix hangers.
- Place multiple groupings at varying heights for added drama.
- Angle hangers to let plants trail naturally rather than straight down.
Get creative with where you situate your hanging marigolds! They add a spark of brightness wherever they’re placed.
Enjoying the Benefits of African Marigolds
Now that you know how to grow and display hanging African marigolds, let’s review some of the greatest benefits they offer:
Visual Appeal
The big pom-pom blooms in warm shades create an eye-catching focal point against any backdrop. Groupings of hanging marigolds make a particularly pretty accent.
Soothing Fragrance
The sweet, citrusy scent of marigolds provides a soothing ambiance. Catching a whiff of their aroma never fails to uplift the mood!
Improved Air Quality
Through photosynthesis, marigolds generate oxygen while filtering out pollutants. This purifies indoor air to make spaces healthier.
Pest Control
The pungent odor of marigolds naturally deters common garden pests. Placing them in problem areas can limit infestations without chemicals.
Mood Booster
The cheerful yellow and orange hues have an uplifting, optimistic effect. Surrounding yourself with marigolds is sure to brighten your mood!
With all these benefits, it’s easy to see why hanging African marigolds are a fantastic way to revive both indoor and outdoor spaces.
Final Thoughts
Hanging African marigolds add a gorgeous pop of color and fresh fragrance wherever they’re displayed. With their cascading golden blossoms and lively disposition, these flowers create an ambiance of warmth and positivity.
By providing the right growing conditions and proper care, your marigolds will flourish in their suspended pots or baskets. Place them strategically around your home and yard to enhance any area with their vibrant presence.
If you’re seeking an easy, natural way to liven up your surroundings, give hanging African marigolds a try. In no time, you’ll be enjoying their visual elegance, sweet scent, and positive energy. So go ahead – give your space a refresh with these luminous flowers!
Harvest and postharvest handling
Marigolds can be harvested as the petals begin to open. Fully opened blooms should be harvested prior to rain events. Keep plenty of buckets of fresh flower food solution available to store flowers as you harvest. Since these flowers bloom in hot weather, multiple trips during the harvest to a cooler may be necessary to extend vase life. Ideal storage temperatures for marigolds are 36 F to 41 F. If cooler space is not available, bring flowers into an air-conditioned space as soon as possible. With proper care, marigolds can remain fresh in vases for up to two weeks. While preservatives are not necessary, they may reduce microbial growth in bucket and vase water.
Marigolds maintain their vibrant color even after they are dried. While they are suitable for potpourri and other dried uses, marigolds are used more widely in fresh arrangements.
While vases full of marigolds are beautiful, many people use them as garlands, necklaces, shawls and more. When stringing marigolds, the larger, fully opened blooms are preferred.
Yellow and orange marigolds stand tall in this field located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Marigolds are a potential replacement for carnations in some flower arrangements. Photo by Kathryn Fontenot.
Pictured above are samples of marigold flowers in a shelf-life study at LSU. Photo by Kathryn Fontenot.
Marigolds add texture and bright pops of color to bouquets. Photo by James DelPrince.
Marigolds add bright pops of color and texture to mixed bouquets. Pictured above are zinnias and marigolds. Photo by Kathryn Fontenot.
Why YOU Should Plant Marigolds. EVERYWHERE.
FAQ
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