French marigold (Tagetes patula)

Tagetes patula (French marigold) is an annual herbaceous plant that rarely exceeds 40 cm in height. Although the common name, their origin is Mexico.
Its inflorescences can be yellow, orange, red or brown, in one color or combining several hues. It is a very easy plant to grow, both in pots and borders.
Plant profile
Common name: French marigoldScientific name: Tagetes patula
Plant type: Annual / Biennial
Height: 10cm - 50cm
Spread: 10cm - 50cm
Foliage: Evergreen
Foliage color: Green
Flower color: Brown, Orange, Yellow
Season of interest: Autumn, Summer
Sunlight: Full Sun
Soil: Clay, Loam, Sand
Moisture: Moist but well drained, Well drained
Garden type: City & Courtyard Gardens, Coastal, Informal Garden, Mediterranean Garden, Patio & Container Garden
Planting type: Containers & Pots, Flower borders and bedding
The natural secretions of its roots repel or kill parasitical nematodes present in the soil, and thus it is considered an excellent companion plant. For this reason it is often cultivated among the vegetable rows, although the best results are obtained when growing tagetes first on site, and once their cycle is over, grow the vegetables.
Climate
It does not support very low or very high temperatures, but it is grown in different climatic regions of the world.
Periods with very high temperatures can reduce the number of inflorescences and harm the plants.
In regions where there are no temperature extremes, it can be cultivated throughout the year.
Sunlight
Plant in a full sun position, although it can tolerate moderate shade.
Watering
When well developed Tagetes patula can withstand short periods of drought, but grows better if there is no shortage of water.
Soil
Although French marigold tolerates various soil conditions, it prefers moist but well drained soils.
The ideal is a fertile soil, rich in organic matter and well drained, with a pH between 6 and 7.5.
Flowering season
In regions with cold winters it usually blooms from summer to autumn, until the first frosts.
Propagation
French marigold is propagated by seeds, which can be sown to a depth of 0.5 cm. Germination is very easy and usually takes a week or two.