Marigold African Orange Flower Seeds

About Marigold African Orange Flower Seeds

African/Genda marigold, orange — large pompom flowers. India's most popular flower for pooja, garlands and gardens alike. Great for beginners.

• Botanical name: Tagetes erecta
• Care level: Easy
• Expected germination time: 5-8 days under suitable conditions*

How to Grow

1. Fill a seedling tray or small pot with a fine, clean, well-draining seed-starting mix.
2. Sow at the right depth — 5 mm.
3. Water gently with a spray bottle so the seeds are not displaced. Keep the medium moist, not waterlogged.
4. Place the tray where it gets the right light for this plant (full sun). Protect young seedlings from harsh afternoon sun.
5. Under suitable conditions, sprouts usually appear in 5-8 days.

Light, water, soil and feeding

• Light: Full sun
• Water: Water when the top layer of soil dries. Water at the base — overhead watering rots the flowers.
• Soil: Any well-drained soil. Very adaptable.
• Temperature: Does well at 18–35°C. Can be grown almost year-round in India.
• Fertiliser: Light balanced feed every 3–4 weeks. Excess nitrogen grows leaves, not flowers.

Sowing season in India

All seasons — June-July, Sept-Oct, Jan-Feb Exact timing depends on your local temperature and conditions.

Common problems

Spider mites in hot weather, and stem rot in waterlogged soil.

*Germination time is an expected range under suitable temperature, moisture, sowing depth and storage conditions. Natural germination cannot be guaranteed.