Thompson & Morgan Marigold Crackerjack Mixed - 250 Seeds
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The Thompson & Morgan African Marigold 'Crackerjack Mixed' is ideal for gardeners seeking vibrant, long-lasting annual color and a unique edible component for their kitchen. These prolific bloomers offer a stunning range of orange, gold, and lemon flowers from early summer through mid-autumn, providing a high-impact display with minimal effort. However, gardeners should be aware that these plants require full sun and are sensitive to frost, necessitating careful timing for spring sowing and outdoor transition.
All features
| Model Part Number | 25391 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Thompson & Morgan |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Can I grow these in containers?
Yes, their 45cm spread makes them well-suited for large patio pots, provided the container has good drainage.
Are the flowers safe to eat?
Yes, these marigold petals are edible and add a citrusy note to dishes, though you should avoid the bitter base of the flower.
When is the best time to plant outdoors?
Wait until all risk of frost has passed in your local area, usually late spring or early summer.
How often should I water them?
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, aiming for the base of the plant to prevent foliage issues.
Do I need to fertilize them?
Using a well-draining, nutrient-rich compost at the start is usually sufficient, though a balanced liquid feed can be used mid-season if growth stalls.
Troubleshooting
Seeds failing to germinate
Check that the soil temperature is consistently between 21-25C and that the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged.
Leggy or weak plant stems
The plants likely lack sufficient light; ensure they are in a full-sun location and try pinching out the growing tips to encourage branching.
Few flowers appearing
Ensure you are deadheading spent blooms regularly; if the plant focuses energy on seed production, it will stop producing new flowers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High volume of large, double blooms
- Edible petals add culinary versatility
- Extended flowering season from June to October
- Reliable germination rate
- Strong, striking visual presence
Cons
- Strictly sensitive to frost conditions
- Requires full sun for optimal performance
- Needs careful temperature management during germination
- Staggered planting may be required for consistent blooms
Setup, Compatibility & Care
For the best results, start seeds indoors in spring using high-quality seed compost. Lightly cover the seeds and maintain a constant temperature between 21-25C to ensure germination within the 7-21 day window. Transition seedlings to a cooler environment as they grow before hardening them off for outdoor planting. Ensure outdoor soil is well-drained and receives full sun. Space plants 30cm apart to allow for proper air circulation, which helps prevent foliage diseases. Water at the base of the plant to keep leaves dry, and deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage the plant to continue producing flowers through October.