Marigolds (species within the Tagetes genus) are popular annual flowers known for their ease of cultivation and bright blooms. Successful propagation starts with recognizing their unique seed structure. Understanding the visual characteristics of the seed is the first step toward collecting and planting them to ensure a new generation of vibrant flowers.
Distinctive Visual Traits
A marigold seed, technically an achene, possesses a slender, elongated shape, often likened to a miniature dart or a paintbrush handle. These structures are distinctly two-toned, presenting a clear contrast between the two ends. The actual seed is housed within the darker, tapered base, which is typically black or dark brown, indicating maturity.
Extending from this dark base is a lighter, bristly tip that may appear white, creamy, or tan. The size of the seed varies between species; seeds from the tall African marigold (Tagetes erecta) are generally longer than those from the compact French marigold (Tagetes patula).
Harvesting Seeds from Spent Flowers
The seeds are found clustered inside the receptacle, which is the dried flower head remaining after the petals have faded. To ensure the seeds are mature and viable, wait until the flower head is completely brown, dry, and crispy to the touch. The base of the flower should also be turning a paper-like brown before extraction.
Once dried, the seeds are accessed by gently peeling away the dried petals and the outer casing. The slender, two-toned seeds will be revealed, densely packed together. Collect these seeds by carefully pulling them away from the base of the receptacle, and set them aside to dry fully for several days before storage.
Essential Planting Requirements
Successfully starting marigolds from collected seeds requires attention to a few simple environmental conditions. Sowing should occur in the spring, only after the last expected frost has passed and the soil temperature has begun to warm up. Marigolds thrive best in a location that receives full sunlight, meaning at least six hours of direct sun exposure daily.
The seeds must be planted very shallowly, as they require light to encourage germination; covering them with no more than 1/4 inch (5 millimeters) of soil is sufficient. Keeping the soil consistently moist, but never waterlogged, is important during this initial phase. Under these conditions, the seeds typically germinate in just 4 to 10 days.