Marigold African Crackerjack

Climate & Planting Timing   

Marigolds thrive in warm conditions and are frost sensitive. Optimal sowing times vary by Australian climate zones: 

 Cool: September – March. 

 Temperate: September – May

 Sub Tropical: Year round (avoid wet season peaks). 

 Tropical: April – July. 

 Arid: Year round. 

 Direct Sowing vs. Seed Trays 

Direct Sowing 

 Steps: 

  1. Prepare well draining soil enriched with compost or aged manure. 

  2. Sow seeds 5mm deep, 20 – 50cm apart (dwarf varieties closer, tall types spaced wider). 

  3. Water lightly; keep soil moist until germination (4–10 days). 

  4. Thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding. 

 Pros: Less transplant shock, suits large gardens. 

 Cons: Vulnerable to pests (e.g., slugs) during early growth. 

Growing in Trays 

 Steps: 

  1. Fill trays with seed raising mix; sow seeds 5mm deep. 

  2. Maintain 10 – 30 °C for germination (use heat mats if needed) . 

  3. Harden off seedlings over 2 weeks before transplanting. 

  4. Transplant at 5–10cm tall, spacing 20–50cm apart. 

 Pros: Controlled environment, ideal for short growing seasons. 

 Cons: Risk of damping off with overwatering. 

Care & Maintenance 

 Soil:

• Well draining, pH 6.0–7.5.
• Amend clay soils with sand or compost. 

 Watering:

• Deeply once weekly, avoid wet foliage to prevent mildew. 

 Fertiliser:

• Apply balanced fertiliser at planting or use slow release options.
• Avoid overfeeding. 

 Deadheading:

• Remove spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering. 

 Mulching:

• Use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. 

Companion Planting Guide 

Marigolds repel nematodes, aphids, and whiteflies while attracting pollinators.

Ideal companions include: 

• Tomatoes, Eggplants, Capsicums: Deter pests like aphids and beetles. 
• Potatoes: Reduce Colorado potato beetle damage. 
• Cucumbers, Beans: Enhance pollination and growth. 
• Basil: Improves flavour and pest resistance. 

 Avoid:

• Peas (may not benefit from marigolds’ nematode control). 

Pest & Disease Management 

• Aphids/Spider Mites: Spray with neem oil or soapy water. 
• Slugs/Snails: Use traps, remove hiding spots, or apply diatomaceous earth. 
• Powdery Mildew: Improve airflow, water at soil level, and apply eco fungicide. 
• Damping Off: Avoid overwatering; use sterile seed raising mix.   

Harvesting & Seed Saving 

 Flowers: Pick when fully open for salads or drying. 

 Seeds: Collect dried flower heads, store in airtight containers. 

Key Takeaways 

• Direct Sowing suits warm climates and low maintenance gardens. 
• Seed Trays offer better control in cooler regions or for early starts. 
• Pair marigolds with vegetables for natural pest control and enhanced yields.