Marigold 'Scarlet Sophie' - Kew Pollination Seed CollectionTagetes patulaFrench Marigold

Sow marigold seed in spring on the surface of a good seed compost and gently firm down. Lightly cover the seed with a fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Place the seed tray in a propagator at a temperature of 21-25C (70-77F) or seal it inside a polythene bag. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged and not exclude light as this aids germination which usually takes 7-21 days.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant and grow them on in cooler conditions until large enough to plant outdoors. When growing marigolds, pinch out the growing tip of each stem to encourage branching and form a bushier plant which will produce more flowers later on. When marigold plants are well grown and all risk of frost has passed, acclimatise them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days. Transplant outdoors in any well drained soil in full sun, at a distance of 30cm (12”) apart.

Seeds and garden supplies will normally be delivered within the time period stated against each product as detailed above. Plants, bulbs, corms, tubers, shrubs, trees, potatoes, etc. are delivered at the appropriate time for planting or potting on. Delivery times will be stated on the product page above, or in your order acknowledgement page and email.

Orders for packets of seed incur a delivery charge of £2.99.

Orders which include any other products will incur a delivery charge of £6.99.

Where an order includes both packets of seeds and other products, a maximum delivery charge of £7.99 will apply - regardless of the number of items ordered.

Large items may incur a higher delivery charge - this will be displayed in your shopping basket.

Please see our Delivery page for further details, and more information on different charges that may apply to certain destinations.

For more information on how we send your plants please visit our Helpful Guide on plant sizes.