Companion Planting Series: Growing Marigolds for a Thriving Cannabis Garden

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How to Grow Marigolds: A Step-by-Step Guide

In this companion planting series, we explore the incredible benefits of pairing marigolds with cannabis to create a healthier and more productive garden. Marigolds not only add a burst of color to your outdoor cannabis grow, but they also play a crucial role in pest management and overall garden vitality. To fully harness the advantages of marigolds, let's begin with a comprehensive guide on how to grow these beautiful flowers, starting from germination and concluding with seed harvesting.

I live in agricultural zone 9b. In this zone, my marigolds tend to bloom beautifully in the spring and fall. Depending on your zone, bloom times may differ. 

If you would like to learn more about growing cannabis, check out this free grow guide!

Don't know where to get cannabis seeds? Check out Seedsman!

Thinking about making edibles with your harvest? Don't know how to get started? Check out our easy free cannabis cookbook!

Step 1: Selecting Marigold Seeds

- When choosing marigold seeds, consider the variety you want according to your climate. Common choices include African marigolds (Tagetes erecta) and French marigolds (Tagetes patula). African marigolds are larger, while French marigolds are more compact.

Step 2: Germination (Indoors)

- Start your marigold seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your region's last frost date. Use seedling trays or small pots.

PRO TIP!!!- If you don’t germinate inside before your frost date, don’t sweat it! Marigolds grow very fast and you can pretty much germinate them at any point outside during your growing season. Grow them anytime! 

- Fill your containers with a high-quality, well-draining potting mix.

- Plant the marigold seeds 1/4 inch deep, spacing them 2 inches apart.

- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

- Provide indirect sunlight, and maintain a temperature of around 70°F (21°C).

- Marigold seeds should germinate within 5-14 days.

Step 3: Transplanting

- Once your marigold seedlings have at least two sets of true leaves, they are ready to be transplanted into your outdoor garden.

- Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.

- Space the marigold seedlings 8-10 inches apart, depending on the variety.

Step 4: Outdoor Care

- Marigolds thrive in full sun, so ensure they receive 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.

- Water your marigolds consistently, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

- Fertilize with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. 

Step 5: Companion Planting with Cannabis

- Place marigolds strategically around your cannabis plants to deter common pests like aphids and nematodes.

- Marigolds' strong scent and root secretions act as a natural barrier against pests.

Step 6: Deadheading (cutting flowers)

- Remove spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering.

- Deadheading helps the plant redirect energy into producing more flowers.

-Don’t be afraid to cut your flowers back because more flowers will grow! 

PRO TIP!!-Recycle old glass sauce jars and use them for beautiful marigold bouquets! I love having a bouquet of basil and marigolds on my dinner table. Any chance I can get, I am always gifting marigold bouquets to friends and neighbors. It is an easy and free way to spread some kindness around this world. 

Step 7: Pest Control

- Marigolds themselves act as a pest repellent, but they may occasionally attract aphids. Monitor for pests and address any issues promptly. It is generally a good thing that marigolds act as an aphid attractors because they tend to “trap” the aphids and prevent them from wandering over to your cannabis plants. 

Step 8: Seed Harvesting

- Allow some marigold flowers to mature and go to seed at the end of the growing season.

- The seeds will develop in the dried flower heads. Collect them once the heads turn brown.

- Store seeds in a cool, dry place for the next growing season.

-I love collecting seeds. Seed collecting and storing emphasize my self-sufficiency! I usually have a surplus of seeds, so I gift them away during the holidays. Another friendly and free way to share love with your friends and family!

Step 9: Overwintering (Optional)

- In milder climates, marigolds can be overwintered, either in the ground or by transplanting them into pots and bringing them indoors.

Conclusion:

By following this step-by-step guide, you can successfully grow marigolds, harness their natural pest-repelling properties, and create a harmonious environment for your cannabis plants. The vibrant marigold blooms will not only beautify your garden but also help keep unwanted pests at bay, contributing to a healthier and more thriving outdoor cannabis garden.

If you would like to learn more about growing cannabis, check out this free grow guide!

Don't know where to get cannabis seeds? Check out Seedsman!

Thinking about making edibles? Check out our free cannabis cookbook!