Marigold Seeds - Red Gem
(Tagetes tenuifolia) Annual. 60 days to maturity.
One of the more delicate marigolds, Red Gem produces many small, simple red flowers with orange centres. Plant grows only to 12" and leaves are slender and frilly. When grown on the ground, Red Gem marigold forms a tight hill of flowers. Also great for planters. All marigolds are edible!
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Growth Habit: Neat, low mounds, slender, frilly foliage and small flowers.
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Average soil
When to Plant: Direct seed after last frost date OR start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost date.
How to Plant:
Direct sow: after the last frost date, sow seeds ¼” deep and cover lightly with soil. Seeds will germinate in 7-14 days. Thin young plants to 1 foot apart.
Transplant: sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost date. Seeds will germinate in 7-14 days. Harden off seedlings before transplanting after the last frost date. Space plants 1 foot apart.
When to Harvest: Summer into Fall.
How to Harvest: Cut stems when flowers are fully open, but still have tight centres. Deadhead regularly to extend flowering.
Uses: Excellent cut flowers. Attracts beneficial insects. All marigold petals are edible and Red Gem boasts a light citrus flavour! Petals can be used fresh or dried in tea, bath products, and desserts or as beautiful, sweet garnishes.