Marigold Dwarf Mix Facts

Features

• Dwarf marigolds grow 6 to 12 inches tall. A dwarf marigold mix typically includes flowers 1 to 2 inches in diameter with blended colors of yellow, orange and bronze. Mixed flowers offer single and bicolor shades in single and double blooms. Flowers bloom late spring through autumn. Dwarf marigold mixes mature quickly. They bloom six weeks after planting. Deadheading or pinching off the small, ragged seed heads encourages more blooms. Split open the dry seed heads and scatter seeds for more plants.

Uses

• Dwarf marigold mixes prefer sunny locations and thrive in summer. These tough little flowers bloom profusely when other flowers wilt in heat and drought. These traits make dwarf marigold mixes suitable for pavement edgings and exposed borders. They adapt to poor soils and dry conditions, though they also grow abundantly in rich, well-drained soil. These small plants grow readily from seed in container gardens and window boxes. For garden renovations, the dwarf marigold mixes provide fast, instant flower gardens until other slower-growing plants or perennials are established. They grow quickly to fill small spaces and add seasonal color to existing flower beds.

Companions

• Dwarf marigold mixes share space well with other plants. The marigolds spread into mounding plants at maturity but are not invasive to neighboring plants. Their colors blend well with perennials and other bedding plants. Interplant dwarf marigold mixes with permanent shrubs. The marigolds offer continuing color without blocking sun from the perennial shrubs. Pinch dwarf marigolds back to maintain a small size in containers. Partner them with dwarf flowers like snapdragons, gerbera or cosmos. Dwarf marigold mixes add depth to wildflower gardens. Scatter seeds from marigolds and wildflowers in spring for a long-blooming garden.

Pest Control

• Use dwarf or French marigolds to fight nematodes. Nematodes are small parasites that attack roots and severely damage plants. Many gardeners plant dwarf marigold mixes among vegetables to deter insects and nematodes. Dwarf marigold roots exude natural compounds that are toxic to nematodes. These compounds are most effective after three to four months in the soil. Plant the dwarf marigold mixes in spring, allowing them to mature through summer. In autumn, cut foliage off the roots. Cultivate the roots into the soil for continued nematode control.