Tagetes patula Fireball (French Marigold)

Prized for its multicolor flowers, Tagetes patula 'Fireball' (French Marigold) is a compact, bushy annual boasting double flowers, up to 2-3 in. across (5-7 cm) that open red before turning fiery bronze, deep orange, and finally dark gold as they mature. Blooming from spring until frost, the showy blossoms generously cover the finely divided aromatic foliage. The flowers and foliage have a spicy fragrance and have been used to deter insects in the garden. Easy to grow and low maintenance, French marigolds are excellent for beds, patio containers, or as edging plants.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Vigorously grows up to 10-12 in. tall (25-30 cm) and 6-8 in. wide (15-20 cm).
• Performs best in full sun in moderately fertile, dry to moist, well-drained soils. Some light afternoon shade is tolerated in hot summer areas. Adaptable to poor soils, heat, humidity, and especially drought.
• French Marigolds are excellent additions to the landscape as bedding or edging plants at the front of the border or in containers on the deck or patio. Great companion planting for vegetable or herb gardens.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for powdery mildew, Botrytis, leaf spots, rots, spider mites, and thrips. Deer tend to avoid this plant.
• Pinching off dead blossoms will promote continuous blooming. Blooming might decrease in the heat of summer but will resume once temperatures cool down.
• Propagate by seed sown at 70°F (21°C) in spring. Sow seeds outdoors after all danger of frost has passed or indoors 6-8 weeks prior to the last spring frost date.
• Foliage may aggravate skin allergies. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
• Tagetes patula is native to Mexico and Guatemala.