When To Plant Marigolds In New Zealand

Welcome to the world of gardening in New Zealand, where the diverse climate and unique growing conditions offer a multitude of opportunities for plant enthusiasts. If you’re looking to add a burst of vibrant color to your garden, marigolds are an excellent choice. These cheerful flowers not only brighten up any space but also serve as natural pest repellents. However, knowing the ideal time to plant marigolds is crucial for their success. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of when to plant marigolds in New Zealand, taking into account the country’s varying regions and climates. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this guide will ensure that your marigolds thrive and bring joy to your outdoor space.

Best varieties of Marigolds to grow in New Zealand

In New Zealand, the most commonly grown varieties of marigolds are Tagetes erecta (African marigold) and Tagetes patula (French marigold). These varieties are well-suited to the New Zealand climate and are easy to grow. For African marigolds, popular varieties include:

1. ‘Crackerjack’: This variety produces large, double flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red. It grows up to 60-90 cm tall and is great for adding vibrant color to borders and containers.
2. ‘Inca Orange’: As the name suggests, this variety has bright orange flowers with a compact growth habit. It reaches a height of about 30-40 cm and is perfect for edging or mass planting.
3. ‘Antigua Orange’: This variety features large, fully double flowers in a stunning shade of orange. It grows up to 60-75 cm tall and is ideal for adding a splash of color to beds and borders.

For French marigolds, popular varieties include:

1. ‘Bonanza Mix’: This variety produces compact plants with double flowers in a mix of colors including yellow, orange, and red. It grows up to 20-30 cm tall and is great for edging, containers, or as a companion plant.
2. ‘Durango Mix’: These marigolds have large, double flowers in a range of colors, including yellow, orange, and red. They grow up to 25-30 cm tall and are perfect for borders, containers, or as a bedding plant.
3. ‘Jaguar Mix’: This variety features large, fully double flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red. It grows up to 25-30 cm tall and is excellent for adding color to beds, borders, or containers.

Remember to provide marigolds with well-drained soil, full sun, and regular watering to ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms.

When to plant Marigolds in New Zealand

The best time to plant Marigolds in New Zealand is during the spring season, which typically falls between September and November. Marigolds prefer warm weather and need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Planting them during the spring allows them to establish strong roots and grow vigorously during the summer months. It is important to note that Marigolds are frost-sensitive, so it is advisable to wait until any risk of frost has passed before planting them outdoors.

How to grow

Growing marigolds in New Zealand is relatively easy, as they are well-suited to the country’s climate. Here are the steps and considerations for successfully growing marigolds:

1. Choose the right variety: There are different types of marigolds available, including French marigolds (Tagetes patula) and African marigolds (Tagetes erecta). French marigolds are smaller and more compact, while African marigolds are taller and have larger flowers. Consider the size, color, and growth habit of the marigold variety before making a selection.
2. Select a suitable location: Marigolds prefer full sun, so choose a spot in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. They also prefer well-draining soil, so ensure the area has good drainage.
3. Prepare the soil: Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds and loosening it with a garden fork or tiller. Marigolds are not too fussy about soil type but prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0-7.0). If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, consider adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve its texture and fertility.
4. Sow or transplant: Marigolds can be started from seeds indoors or directly sown into the garden. If starting indoors, sow the seeds in seed trays or pots about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant the seedlings outdoors once the risk of frost has passed. If sowing directly in the garden, wait until the soil has warmed up in spring.
5. Planting: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the marigold seedling. Place the seedling in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole and gently firm the soil around the plant. Space the marigold plants according to their mature size, usually around 8-12 inches apart.
6. Watering: Water the newly planted marigolds thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Afterward, water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells. Marigolds prefer evenly moist soil, but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
7. Mulching: Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the base of the marigold plants can help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
8. Fertilizing: Marigolds are not heavy feeders but can benefit from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied at planting time. Alternatively, you can use a liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.
9. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers regularly by pinching or cutting them off. This process, known as deadheading, prevents the plant from diverting energy into seed production and promotes the growth of new flowers.
10. Pest and disease control: Marigolds are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for aphids, slugs, and snails, which can occasionally be a problem. If necessary, use organic pest control methods or insecticidal soap to manage these pests.

By following these steps and considering the specific needs of marigolds, you can enjoy a beautiful display of vibrant flowers throughout the growing season in New Zealand.

When does Marigolds bloom in New Zealand?

Marigolds (Tagetes) typically bloom in New Zealand during the spring and summer months, which is from September to February. However, the exact blooming period can vary depending on the specific variety of marigold and the local climate conditions. It is important to note that marigolds are sensitive to frost, so it is best to plant them after the last frost date in your region.

Other considerations

When growing Marigolds in New Zealand, there are several important considerations to keep in mind:

1. Climate: Marigolds thrive in warm and sunny conditions. In New Zealand, they are best grown in areas with mild to warm temperatures. They can tolerate a range of climates, but they may not perform as well in cooler regions or during the winter months.
2. Soil: Marigolds prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and drainage. Avoid heavy clay soils, as they can cause root rot.
3. Watering: Marigolds have moderate water needs. Water them regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. It’s best to water at the base of the plants rather than overhead to prevent fungal diseases.
4. Sunlight: Marigolds require full sun to thrive. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Insufficient sunlight can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering.
5. Fertilizer: Marigolds are not heavy feeders, but they benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or apply a liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can promote leafy growth at the expense of flowers.
6. Pest and Disease Control: Marigolds are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can occasionally be affected by aphids, slugs, or snails. Monitor your plants regularly and take appropriate measures if you notice any infestations. Applying organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, can help keep these pests at bay.
7. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove faded flowers regularly. Deadheading not only improves the appearance of the plants but also prevents them from going to seed, which can reduce the flowering period.
8. Companion Planting: Marigolds are known to repel certain pests, such as aphids and nematodes. Consider planting them alongside vegetables or other susceptible plants to provide natural pest control.

By considering these factors, you can successfully grow marigolds in New Zealand and enjoy their vibrant blooms throughout the growing season.