60-70 Days to maturity. Tagetes patula. Nematode Control Marigold Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated. This drought-tolerant and deer-resistant marigold is an outstanding tool in any gardener’s tool belt. As a specially cultivated French marigold variety, nematode control marigolds promise to repel nematodes in the soil anywhere that they are grown and then tilled into the soil as a cover crop. Marigold roots naturally release a compound that repels nematodes and other soil-dwelling pests. This one is one of the best choices for this job! It is the perfect way to reduce unnecessary synthetic pesticide use. ~ 6,100 seeds/oz. Latin Name: Tagetes patula Hardiness Zone: Annual; Zones 2-10 Days to Maturity: 60-70 days Days to Germination: 5-10 days Seeding Depth: 0.125 inches Plant Spacing: 8-15 inches Row Spacing: 24-36 inches Plant Height: 30-40 inches Plant Width: 18-24 inches Plant Spread: 18-24 inches Growth Habit: Upright Soil Preference: Moderately fertile soil with good drainage. Tolerant of poor soils. Temperature Preference: 70-75F Light Preference: Full Sun Pests and Diseases: Marigolds are generally very pest and disease-resistant. The most common diseases are water-related. These include blight, rot, and mildew. Avoiding overhead watering can reduce or eliminate these issues. The most common pests are aphids and beetles. French Marigolds are resistant to deer and rabbit grazing. Dainty Mariette Color: Bright orange blooms with yellow centers. Classic green foliage. Easy/Hard: Easy Direct Sow: Yes Direct Sow; Sow at .5 to 1 oz per 1000 sq ft Start Indoors: Yes, start indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Landscape Use: Bedding, Borders, Ground Cover, Cover Crop Seed Stratification: Not Recommended Bloom Period: Summer, Fall Growing Location: In ground, Raised Beds, Containers Growing Non-GMO Nematode Control Marigold Flower Seeds Marigold seeds can be directly sown outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 60F. Although, starting them indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost will ensure earlier roots and establishment. Germinate them in a warm, well-lit area. Harden off the seedlings gradually before permanently transplanting them outdoors to allow them time to acclimate. After sowing and transplanting, the marigold roots should be watered heavily. Avoid getting water on the leaves. Avoid overhead watering, as this can cause diseases that are easily avoidable with proper irrigation. These gorgeous marigolds will persist right up until the last frost or until tilled in. Deadheading them throughout the season will keep the plants clean and highly productive. To get the nematode control benefits, till the marigolds into the soil at least 1-2 weeks before planting the next crop. In areas with longer growing seasons, they should be grown ahead of the cash crop that same year. In areas with short growing seasons, they should be grown as a cover crop the previous year. To prevent volunteer marigold plants, till under before the seeds develop and become viable. Nematode Control Marigolds in the Flower Garden Although these special marigolds are typically grown in more agricultural settings, they can play a wonderful part in any garden by following the same tactics. Even small gardens can experience nematode issues. By planting these as directed above and then tilling them into the soil, you can ensure your flower garden stays nematode-free while also enjoying the classic marigold blooms throughout the summer. They bloom throughout the summer and fall. Companion Planting With Nematode Control Marigolds Common crops that suffer from nematode issues are tomatoes, potatoes, tobacco, many cucurbits, and soybeans. Plant nematode control marigolds ahead of these crops and any others to increase nematode resistance and then plant some intermingled with the crop during the growing season to extend the benefits and further increase pollinator activity and deer resistance. About Nematode Control Marigold Garden Seeds All marigolds have nematode-controlling effects when grown and tilled properly. However, this marigold variety is specifically grown and sold for this purpose and outshines the rest. This hardworking marigold is perfect for farmers and gardeners alike. Although it was not developed for its blooms, it still will bloom all summer and fall with gorgeous single blooms. Marigolds are originally native to Mexico and Guatemala. They were discovered by English explorers in the 16th century and brought back to Europe to sell. They quickly spread in popularity from England to northern Africa. Nematode Control Marigolds are technically French Marigolds. French Marigolds are famously easier to take care of than African Marigolds which can be just as beautiful. Tips From Our Gardeners "Marigolds are one of the easiest first steps in any organic IPM program. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) dictates using all mechanisms at our disposal to repel and dispose of harmful pests. Pair marigolds with other strategies such as barriers, horticultural oils, and diatomaceous earth to round out your program." - Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer Nematode Control Marigold Seeds Per Package: 2 g - Wholesale - Approximately 428 Seeds 0.25 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 1,525 Seeds 1 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 6,100 Seeds 4 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 24,400 Seeds Non-GMO Nematode Control Marigold seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.