Culture guide

Usage

Bedding, border, mixed container

Sowing method

1 seed per plug

Germination

Stage I: 2-3 days at 72-75 °F (22-24 °C). Sow in media with very low soluble salt levels and pH 6.0-6.5. Cover seed lightly with vermiculite after sowing to maintain moisture levels. Keep soil slightly moist but not wet. Light is not required for germination. At the end of stage I the radicle will have emerged and the cotyledons begin to unfurl.

Growing on

4-5 weeks after sowing transplant 1 plant into 10 cm (4”) pots or packs. Transplant African Marigold plugs before they become root bound. Delays in transplanting may induce premature flowering.

Media

Use a well-drained, disease free, soilless medium with a pH of 6.2 – 6.5 do not allow to fall below 6.0 or Iron or Manganese toxicity may result.

Temperature

Nights 15-17 °C (59-63 °F), days 18-20 °C (64-68 °F). Avoid lower temperatures, as temperatures between 18-20 °C (64-68 °F) promote the flower initiation. Before selling plants should be hardened slowly at 10-13 °C (50-55 °F). T. patula does not tolerate frost.

Fertilization

Moderate fertilization levels are required. Fertilize the crop weekly with 150-200 ppm nitrogen, using a complete balanced fertilizer. Avoid high ammonium and high nitrogen levels. High nitrogen levels cause leaves being too large and high ammonium levels will damage the roots. Check regularly pH value in substrate, because pH below 6.0 can result in necrotic spots on the leaves or in yellow leaves.