| Plant Type: |
Hardy Annual |
| Bloom Time: |
June - Frost |
| Height: |
12" |
| Exposure: |
Full sun |
| Sow Outside: |
Late April |
| Sow Inside: |
6 weeks before last frost |
| Seed Depth: |
1/4" |
| Seed Spacing: |
6" |
| Days to Germination: |
7-14 days |
| Plant Spacing |
18" apart |
| Pressing: |
No |
| Days to bloom |
50 days |
| Edible: |
Yes |
| Native to: |
Mexico |
| Drying:. |
Yes |
|
Collecting:
Remove
the whole head of the flower.
Storing:
It is okay to place seed pods in an envelope as you collect them but
be sure and spread them in a single out on a tray or screen to dry when
you return to the classroom. Marigold seed heads contain many seeds
and hold a lot of moisture. This cluster of seeds is very susceptible
to molding if not given adequate air circulation. You may place the
seed heads in shoe boxes, on trays or in shallow dishes until you are ready
to take them apart. Whatever storage method you use, be sure they
remain in single layers. Another option is to separate the seeds
from the shaft right away. Using this method will reduce drying time.
After the seeds are fully dried, they can be packaged in the paper seed
envelopes, about a dozen to a pack. Store the packs in a dark, cool place.
The most important aspects of seed storage is to assure that they are consistently
dry and away from severe fluctuations of heat. |
