Tagetes patula |
Native Region: hot dry slopes and valley bottoms from Mexico to Argentina
Zone Range: 04-10
Preferred Climate: tropical
Harvest Date: Monday 19 May, 2008
Seed count: 30-40
Description:
This compact bushy annual with fern-like aromatic leaves grows 6-12 inches high, with a spread of 12 inches. It has purple-tinged stems and pinnate leaves to 4 inches long. Solitary, double flowerheads about 2 inches across are borne singly or in cyme-like infloresences from late spring to fall. A great plant for the edge of a mixed border or in containers.
Cultivation:
Sow in early spring in pots using a standard soil-less seed compost --peat or peat substitute. Cover with perlite or vermiculite and place under protection at 20 degrees Celsius. May also be sown directly into the ground once danger of frost has passed. Thin to 12 inches apart when seedlings are 2 inches tall. Germination takes 14-21 days. Grow in moderately-fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Deadhead to prolong flowering. Water during dry spells. Apply a balanced fertilizer every few weeks. For maximum freshness, please keep seed refrigerated in its original packaging until it is time to plant.
|
