If you love marigolds and want to grow more from your garden, saving and planting seeds from old marigold flower heads is a simple and rewarding process. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you get started.
Step 1: Wait for the Flower Heads to Dry
Let the marigold flowers dry completely on the plant. The petals will turn brown and the flower heads will droop or bend over when ready. If some flower heads fall off or you want to harvest early, you can clip them and let them dry indoors in a paper bag for a couple of weeks.
Step 2: Remove the Seeds from the Dried Flower Heads
Once the flower heads are fully dry, gently pull off the dried petals and leaves to reveal the seed pods. You can rub the pods between your fingers or roll them gently to release the seeds. The seeds are easy to spot—they are slender, dark with a lighter tip, and larger than many other flower seeds, making them easy to handle.
Step 3: Clean and Dry Your Seeds
After harvesting, spread the seeds on a paper towel and let them dry for a few days to avoid mold or rot. Remove any remaining flower debris so your seeds are clean and ready for storage or planting.
Step 4: Store or Plant Your Seeds
If you’re not planting immediately, store your seeds in labeled paper envelopes or small containers in a cool, dry place until the next growing season. When ready to plant, sprinkle the seeds in your garden or start them indoors in seed trays with well-draining soil. Marigold seeds germinate easily and quickly, often sprouting within a week or two.
Bonus Tip: Scatter Seeds Like Confetti
If you want a natural, wildflower look, you can scatter the seeds directly in your garden bed in the fall or early spring. Marigolds are hardy and often self-seed well, popping up year after year with minimal effort.
By saving and planting seeds from your old marigold flower heads, you can enjoy beautiful blooms season after season without buying new seeds. It’s an easy way to keep your garden vibrant and sustainable!