Description
African Marigold is a fragrant annual flower with vibrant, pom-pom-like blooms in shades of yellow, orange, or gold. It thrives in sunlight, well-drained soil, and is known for its insect-repelling properties.
Uses
African Marigold is prized for its ornamental value when planted in beds, borders, or cutting gardens, showcasing large, fluffy orange flowers. Beyond aesthetics, it serves practical purposes, providing natural dyes for food and fabric. With traditional medicinal uses, it treats skin conditions externally and offers internal benefits such as carminative, diuretic, and vermifuge properties. Additionally, it plays a role in natural insect pest control in vegetable gardens.
Planting
For optimal growth, plant African Marigold seeds or seedlings 12 to 18 inches apart in well-drained soil at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Thriving in full sunlight, these marigolds prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil and should be watered at the base to maintain consistent moisture and prevent foliage diseases.