Plant out your Marigold this month — conditions are right now.
Growing Calendar
This month: May
Log to journalMove seedlings outside carefully
- •Harden off plants
- •Prepare soil outdoors
- •Space plants correctly
- •Water well after planting
Watch Out For
Grey mould in wet conditions
improve airflow, remove spent flowers promptly and avoid overhead watering
Aphids cluster on stems
spray with a dilute soap solution or encourage ladybirds by avoiding broad-spectrum insecticides
Grown Organically
Every method in this guide works with natural systems — no synthetic chemicals, no shortcuts.
Read our approachCommon Questions
About growing Marigold in the UK
When do I sow marigolds in the UK?
Sow marigolds indoors from March–April or directly outside from mid-May after the last frost. They germinate quickly and are in flower within 8–10 weeks of sowing.
Do marigolds really deter pests?
French marigolds (Tagetes patula) emit a root exudate that deters soil nematodes, and their scent confuses aphids and whitefly. Planting them alongside tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers is widely used in organic growing.
How do I keep marigolds flowering all season?
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prevent the plant setting seed and to encourage new blooms. In hot, dry periods, water at the base. They will typically flower from June until the first frost.
Are marigolds edible?
Yes — the petals of Calendula officinalis (pot marigold) are edible and can be used in salads, soups and as a garnish. French marigold (Tagetes) petals are also edible but more bitter.
Member guides
There's more to growing Marigold than this guide covers.
Seasonal reminders, deeper guides, and the small adjustments that change a harvest.
