Marigold 'Chedi Orange'
We're sure you've planted or at least seen dwarf marigolds at the nursery for you to buy as bedding plants. But where are the marigold plants that you can create those amazing garlands with? Right here in this packet!
We have found our perfect marigold and the crew unanimously agrees that 'Chedi Orange' is it. It's AMAZING. Throughout summer and fall, it pumps out giant 3" flower heads atop very sturdy 36 - 40" tall plants. And those flowers could be used for anything from cut flowers, to fresh or dried garlands, to edible salad garnishes, and ESPECIALLY for offerings on Dia de los Muertos. The fern-like foliage itself is useful as bouquet greenery, and much sturdier and reliable greenery than actual fern stems.
If you fancy that garland idea, this is how we dry our stems: https://photos.app.goo.gl/N6mBmibUktT4opGx7
BASIC FEATURES
Bloom Season: Summer and Fall
Days to Flowering: 70 - 90 days
Photoperiod Classification: Facultative short-day plants, meaning they WILL flower under long days but flower FASTER under short days.
Pinch: Yes, pinch in early spring to promote a bushier habit.
Deadhead: Yes, to encourage rebloom and delay seed development
Staking: Recommended
Height at Maturity: 36 - 40"
Recommended Spacing: 12"
STARTING SEEDS INDOORS
When to Sow: March - April
When to Harden Off: About 4 weeks after germination
When to Transplant to Garden: About 5 to 6 weeks after germination (and once danger of frost has passed)
STARTING SEEDS OUTDOORS
When to Direct Sow Seeds in the Garden: May - June
FOR FLOWER ARRANGING
For maximum vase life: Once blooms are fully open. Always cut stems at a 45-degree angle for maximum water uptake, and place them directly into fresh, lukewarm water with flower food, in a cool, draft-free area, out of direct sunlight. Trim away any wilted or browning leaves that develop, which can draw away moisture from the blossoms.
ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS TO YOUR GARDEN
Attracts and Supports: hummingbirds, butterflies, honeybees, and bumblebees
Ignored by: Deer and Rabbits