Marigold 'Starfire Mix'

Starfire Marigold Mix (Tagetes tenuifolia)

Starfire Marigold Mix sparkles with dozens of petite, glowing blooms in fiery shades of gold, tangerine, red, and copper. Each plant sends up airy, branching stems over 30" tall, creating clouds of penny-sized flowers that dance above fine, ferny foliage. The effect is weightless and joyful—like tiny suns scattered across the midsummer garden.

Highly productive and wonderfully scented, these miniature marigolds bring texture and movement to bouquets. Their small size makes them perfect for filling gaps, adding flickers of colour between larger blooms. Pair with Coral Reef Phlox for a cheerful, sun-washed palette, or with Zinnia Luminosa for a vibrant contrast. A lively, abundant cut-flower staple.

Optional: Wear gloves if sensitive to plant oils.

Details:

QTY: 300

TYPE: Annual

SITE: Full Sun

DEPTH: 1/8"

GERMINATION: 4-14 Days at 21-25°C

HEIGHT: 24 - 30"

MATURITY: 90 Days

SPACING: 12 - 18"

PINCH: Yes

HOW TO GROW:
Transplant (recommended): Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost. Sow seeds 1/8" deep and keep the soil at 21–25°C for optimal germination. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for 7–10 days before transplanting them outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

Direct Sowing (alternative): Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost. Plant seeds 1/8" deep and keep the soil consistently moist until germination.

Pinching: Pinching the central stem of young plants will encourage a bushier habit and more blooms. Deadheading spent flowers will also prolong the blooming season.

Soil Preference and Watering: African marigolds thrive in full sun and prefer well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant once established but will perform best with regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods.

Fertilizing: Fertilizing is not required for African marigolds. They perform best in average to lean soil. Too much fertility can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms.

Harvesting: For bouquets, harvest stems when the flowers are fully open. The blooms have a spicy, citrus scent and are an excellent addition to arrangements.