African Marigold 'Crackerjack'

Deadhead.

Sow outside 1 to 2 weeks after last frost and if starting inside 4 to 6 weeks before average last frost.

Position in a full sun location and remember to water moderately. Keep in mind when planting that Crackerjack is thought of as half hardy, so it will require protection in frosts and low temperatures.

Sow the seed thinly in pots or trays on a windowsill or in a greenhouse in a good quality, finely sieved, moist compost.

Sow at a depth of approx. 0.23 inches (0.6 cm) and aim for a distance of at least 1.95 inches (5.0 cm) between African Marigold plants. Soil temperature should be kept higher than 15°C / 59°F to ensure good germination.

By our calculations, you should look at sowing Crackerjack about 49 days before your last frost date.

Transplant seedlings spacing them 5cm apart in trays and grow on. Acclimatize the plants to outside conditions and then plant 15 – 23cm apart in a sunny place.

Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Crackerjack is a half hardy plant.

For years, farmers have included the open-pollinated African marigold ‘Crackerjack’ in chicken feed to make egg yolks a darker yellow ¹.

Crackerjack Mixed, Crackerjack Mixed Colors

¹ Marigolds on the Almanac

² botanicalinterest.com