Marigolds will flower all summer until the first heavy frost. Can be started indoors 3/25-4/21 or sown directly outdoors after frost (5/20-7/20). Plant seeds ¼” deep, with final spacing 8” apart. 5-10 days until germination at 75°F. Deadheading (removing spent flowers) will encourage new flowers to grow.
For cut flowers, harvest young (newly opened) flowers with tight centers and place in water, out of the sun immediately.
When flower petals are dry and the base of flower begins to change from green to brown, cut flowers off. Spread to dry until seed heads are very dry and brown.. Remove seeds from seedhead, and let dry for a few more days before storing. Isolation distance: ¼ mile.
