Marigold (Tagetes erecta)

September 2022

Marigolds are beautiful flowers that come in various colors. They are also known to have medicinal properties. What makes them unique is their ability to attract pollinators, such as bees.

The marigold plant has been cultivated since ancient times. Its bright yellow petals are often associated with love and romance. In addition, they are said to bring good luck and prosperity.

There are several varieties of marigolds, each having its own characteristics. Some are fragrant, some produce nectar, and some even have edible leaves.

The medicinal use of marigolds has been known for thousands of years. They were used in ancient Egypt, Greece, India, China, and other countries. Today, they are still widely used in herbal medicine. Some examples include treating colds, flu, fever, stomach aches, and headaches.

In addition to being used medicinally, marigolds are also used in home decoration. The bright yellow color attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. They are also useful when making natural insect repellants.

Marigold (Tagetes erecta)

How to grow marigold

Marigolds have become increasingly popular in recent years. This is because they are easy to grow and maintain. They require little care and maintenance. They are also very attractive.

Marigolds are easy to grow indoors. All you need is a sunny window and soil. It takes approximately six weeks to bloom. To get started, purchase seeds. Plant the seeds in small pots or seed trays. Keep the plants watered regularly and mist them occasionally. Once the plants start growing, move them into larger containers.

When planting outdoors, choose a location where there is full sun exposure. If possible, select an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

You can buy marigolds from nurseries and grocery stores. However, it is best to grow your own. This will ensure that you know exactly what kind of marigolds you are buying.

Growing marigolds is simple. Just follow these steps:

1. Choose a Location

Choose a location that gets plenty of sunlight but doesn't receive too much direct sun. Direct sun can cause leaves to wilt.

2. Prepare Soil

You'll need soil that drains well. Mix together equal parts peat moss and perlite. Add some sand and compost to complete the mixture.

3. Plant Seeds

Plant seeds directly in the prepared soil. Cover the seeds with 1/8 inch of soil. Water thoroughly.

4. Grow Indoors

Keep plants watered until they sprout roots. Once the roots begin to form, water only when necessary.

Marigold (Tagetes erecta)

5. Harvest Flowers

Harvest flowers when they reach 2 inches tall. Cut stems back to encourage growth. Remove spent blooms so that new ones can replace them.

Some of the most popular uses of marigolds

Medicinal Uses

Marigolds are widely used in herbal remedies due to their high concentration of flavonoids. Flavonoids are antioxidants that help prevent cancer and heart disease. These compounds also protect the body from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that cause damage to cells and DNA.

Natural Insect Repellent

Marigolds are effective insect repellents. When crushed, marigolds release volatile oils that repel insects. You can use these oils directly on yourself or spray them onto clothing or furniture.

Fertilizer

You can make fertilizer using marigolds. Simply crush the petals and mix them with water. Add some compost if desired. Use this mixture to fertilize your garden.

Marigold (Tagetes erecta)

Herbal Remedies

There are several ways to prepare marigold tea. One way is to boil the petals until they turn brown. Then strain out the solids and add honey to sweeten the tea. Another method is to steep the petals in hot water overnight. Strain out the solids before drinking.

Dyeing

If you want to dye fabric, you can do so with marigolds. Crush the petals and soak them in cold water for 24 hours. Drain off the liquid and then squeeze out any remaining moisture. Mix the marigolds with food coloring. Spread the mixture evenly over the fabric and let dry.

Sewing Thread

To create sewing thread, simply cut the stem of a marigold flower and place it between two pieces of cloth. Tie the ends together tightly. Remove the stems after about 12 hours.

Marigold (Tagetes erecta)