French marigold Champion 'Harmony'

300 seeds

How to Seed French Marigold ‘Champion Harmony’ (Tagetes patula)

1. Best Time to Sow (Gulf Region):

   • Outdoors: From October to February, when temperatures are mild (15–28°C / 59–82°F).

   • Indoors or nursery trays: From December to February for early spring planting.

   • Avoid sowing from April to September, as high Gulf temperatures reduce germination and flower quality.

2. Sowing Depth:
   Sow seeds 0.5–1 cm deep in moist soil. Cover lightly and press gently.
   Marigolds can be direct-sown in beds or started in seed trays.

3. Soil:
   Prefers well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter.
   Ideal Gulf mix: 40% garden soil + 30% peat moss + 20% perlite + 10% compost.
   Avoid clay or waterlogged soil.

4. Light & Temperature:

   • Germination temperature: 20–25°C (68–77°F).

   • Provide full sun for healthy growth and abundant flowers.

   • In the Gulf, light afternoon shade helps prevent stress during hot periods.

5. Germination Time:
   Seeds germinate in 5–10 days under warm, moist conditions.

6. Transplanting:

   • When seedlings reach 8–10 cm tall, transplant into pots or garden beds.

   • Space plants 20–25 cm apart for compact, bushy growth.

   • Harden seedlings gradually before moving outdoors permanently.

7. Growing Tips for Gulf Climate:

   • Sunlight: Prefers full morning sun and light afternoon shade.

   • Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy; water early morning or evening.

   • Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during the growing season.

   • Maintenance: Deadhead (remove) spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.

   • The ‘Champion Harmony’ variety produces bright gold and mahogany-red blooms with compact, lush foliage — perfect for pots, borders, and ornamental gardens.

   • Blooms from late winter to early summer in the Gulf.