Good Backdrop Colors for Marigolds

Warm Colors

• Certain colors are considered warm because they feature undertones of yellow, while cool colors have undertones of blue. Give warm-colored marigolds a backdrop featuring a warm, autumn color such as russet, deep gold or burnt orange. The yellow, gold, orange, rust and burgundy colors of the marigolds' flowers all fall near each other on the color wheel, and will all look equally good in front of an autumn-colored backdrop.

Complementary

• A complementary color scheme uses shades opposite each other on the color wheel, such as the popular red and green used for Christmas decorating. Opposite the warm yellows, golds and oranges of marigolds' flowers are the cool shades of blue, purple and violet. Planted against a backdrop of these cool colors, marigolds will really stand out, creating a professional-looking design.

Neutral

• The nice thing about neutral colors is they make all the other colors look so good. Choose a neutral backdrop color depending on the effect you desire. A black backdrop presents a marked contrast to the colors of the flowers, creating a dramatic effect. Pure white will brighten the area, but may tend to wash out the marigold blossoms, although their foliage will stand out nicely. A beige backdrop creates a soft, classic look and won't wash out the flower colors or the foliage.

Greenery

• Consider planting marigolds against a backdrop of greenery, such as low-growing deciduous or evergreen shrubs. Taller varieties of marigolds will hold their own planted in front of a vine-covered trellis or fence, while many varieties of ornamental grasses are not too overpowering as a backdrop for these taller types of marigolds. The flowers of ornamental grasses are generally warm tans and creams, which fit in well with the marigolds' color palette.