French Marigold Seeds Court Jester Variety Organic Gardening Seeds

French Marigold (Tagetes patula) 'Court Jester' Seeds – Organic Gardening Seeds

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Tagetes patula 'Court Jester'
• Common Name: French Marigold Court Jester
• Flower Color: Unique bicolor blooms with alternating deep mahogany and bright golden-yellow stripes
• Growth Habit: Compact, bushy annual
• Height & Spread: Grows 10-12 inches tall with a spread of 8-12 inches
• Blooming Season: Summer to frost
• Sun Requirements: Full sun (at least 6 hours daily)
• Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil
• Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers evenly moist but not soggy soil
• Hardiness Zones: Grown as an annual in all USDA zones

Why Grow French Marigold 'Court Jester'?

• Unique, Eye-Catching Blooms: Bold striped petals create a striking garden display
• Easy to Grow & Low Maintenance: Ideal for beginners and experienced gardeners alike
• Pollinator & Beneficial Insect Magnet: Attracts bees and butterflies while deterring pests
• Great for Companion Planting: Helps repel nematodes and other garden pests in vegetable beds
• Extended Blooming Period: Flowers continuously from early summer until frost

Planting and Care Instructions

Seed Preparation and Sowing

• Best Time to Sow: Spring, after the last frost
• Sowing Instructions:
  • Start indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost for early blooms, or direct sow outdoors after frost danger has passed
  • Sow seeds ¼ inch deep in moist, well-draining soil
  • Keep soil warm (65-75°F) for germination, which occurs within 5-10 days
  • Space seedlings 8-12 inches apart once they develop strong roots

Maintenance

• Watering: Water moderately; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
• Fertilization: Light feeding with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks promotes healthy blooms
• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming
• Pest & Disease Resistance: Naturally resistant to many pests; helps deter aphids and nematodes

Ideal For

• Flower beds and borders
• Pollinator and companion planting in vegetable gardens
• Container gardening and patio planters
• Cut flower arrangements

The French Marigold 'Court Jester' is a vibrant and pest-repelling flower that brings striking colors to gardens while supporting healthy plant growth. With minimal care, these marigolds provide a long-lasting and bold display throughout the growing season.