French marigold Double 'Brocade' red

350 seeds

How to Seed French Marigold Double ‘Brocade Red’ (Tagetes patula)

1. Best Time to Sow (Gulf Region):

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

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

   • Avoid sowing during April to September, as Gulf summer heat prevents healthy germination and reduces 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 trays.

3. Soil:
   Prefers well-drained, fertile soil enriched with compost.
   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).

   • Requires full sun for strong stems and abundant blooms.

   • In the Gulf, full morning sun and light afternoon shade work best.

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

6. Transplanting:

   • When seedlings are 8–10 cm tall, transplant to garden beds or pots.

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

   • Harden seedlings gradually before full outdoor exposure.

7. Growing Tips for Gulf Climate:

   • Sunlight: Prefers full morning sun with partial shade in the afternoon during hotter months.

   • Watering: Water moderately, keeping soil evenly moist but not soggy.

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

   • Maintenance: Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.

   • The ‘Brocade Red’ variety produces vibrant double red-and-gold blooms with dense, compact foliage — ideal for borders, pots, and decorative garden beds.

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