Why Do Flowers on Marigolds Bend?

Cultivation

• Proper cultivation of marigolds makes them less susceptible to problems that can cause their blossoms to look droopy and unattractive. Marigold seeds can be planted outdoors once the soil has warmed, after the danger of frost has passed. Well-drained soil is required; overwatering and overly moist soil will cause root rot. Marigolds may also be grown indoors, in containers. Overhead watering may cause stem breakage and bending if blossoms become saturated; always water at the base of the plants.

Heliotropism

• Marigolds are heliotropic, meaning their flowers and leaves turn toward the sunlight whether the plants are grown indoors or out. Cells near the base of the blossoms control the bending, by shrinking or enlarging to move the flowers toward the light source. By keeping marigolds in full sunlight all day, you'll help avoid this survival mechanism and keep flowers from possibly bending away from main focal areas of the garden.

Pests

• Marigolds are well-known natural pest repellents, but there are some insects that aren't perturbed by the strong aroma the blossoms emit. Spider mites, thrips and aphids attack marigolds, feeding heavily on the flowers, and these pests could prove fatal if left unchecked. Spider mites feed on leaves, stems and blossoms, and heavy feeding causes discoloration, wilting, even death. If marigolds begin looking droopy and unhealthy, pests may be to blame. Use insecticides to control and manage insects.

Diseases

• Bacterial wilt and fusarium wilt may strike marigolds. All types of wilt are characterized by wilted foliage and blossoms. Because wilt diseases are viral, and spread quickly, treatment isn't an option. Remove affected marigolds immediately and destroy; don't put infected plant parts in a compost pile or leave them on the ground to spread disease to other plants. Several types of rot, caused by fungi, also strike marigolds. As plants begin to rot around the roots and stems, they'll droop and sag. Overwatering and excess moisture encourage fungal growth, so keep marigold foliage dry and soil well-drained to prevent this problem.