How to Grow Cape Marigold: A Complete Guide
Introduction
Cape marigold, also known as African daisy, is a beautiful annual flower that can brighten up any garden. It’s easy to grow from seed and thrives in a variety of climates. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about growing cape marigolds, from starting seeds to transplanting seedlings to encouraging reseeding.
Growing Cape Marigold from Seed
Cape marigold seeds can be started indoors or outdoors. If you’re starting them indoors, you’ll need to sow them in seed trays filled with well-draining potting mix. Keep the seeds moist and warm, and they should germinate in about 10-14 days.
Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, you can transplant them outdoors. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the seedling in the hole and fill in the soil around it, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
Growing Cape Marigold Outdoors
Cape marigolds are drought tolerant plants, so they don’t need to be watered very often. However, they will produce more flowers if you water them regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Cape marigolds are also relatively low-maintenance plants. They don’t need to be fertilized very often, and they’re not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, you should deadhead spent flowers to encourage new growth and flowering.
Encouraging Cape Marigold Reseeding
Cape marigolds will readily reseed themselves if you let them. To promote reseeding, simply allow the flowers to go to seed at the end of the growing season. Once the seeds are ripe, they will fall to the ground and germinate in the spring.
Troubleshooting Cape Marigold Problems
Cape marigolds are generally easy to grow, but they can sometimes develop problems. Here are a few common problems and how to fix them:
- Leggy plants: Leggy plants are a sign that the plants are not getting enough sunlight. Move the plants to a sunnier location.
- Yellowing leaves: Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering or underwatering. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause white spots to form on the leaves. Treat powdery mildew with a fungicide.
- Aphids: Aphids are small, green insects that can suck the sap from cape marigold plants. Treat aphids with an insecticide.
Conclusion
Cape marigolds are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. With a little care, they will thrive and provide you with months of enjoyment.