How to Grow Bonanza Marigold
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Bonanza Marigold
Tagetes erecta 'Bonanza'
flowerBonanza marigold is a compact, dwarf cultivar of African marigold known for producing large, fully double flowers on bushy plants that typically reach 12-16 inches tall. These vibrant blooms come in shades of yellow, orange, and red, making them excellent for borders, containers, and cut flowers. This variety is bred for early flowering and exceptional floral production throughout the growing season.
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Example Bonanza Marigold timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Bonanza Marigold
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Bonanza Marigold blooms
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Bonanza Marigold dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives as an annual in all zones; treated as tender annual in zones 2-9, perennial in 10-11
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Germination
7-10 daysSeeds sprout and develop first true leaves; seedlings appear thin and delicate with cotyledons visible.
Maintain consistent moisture and warmth (70-75°F). Provide bright light immediately after sprouting. Thin seedlings to proper spacing to prevent damping-off disease.
Seedling Development
3-4 weeksYoung plants develop multiple sets of true leaves and stronger stems; foliage becomes more robust with characteristic feathery, finely-divided leaves.
Maintain warm conditions and bright light. Water when soil surface dries. Begin light feeding with diluted balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks.
Vegetative Growth
2-3 weeksPlants become bushy and full-bodied as they develop branching stems. Foliage is lush green with the characteristic pungent marigold scent.
Pinch back growing tips at 6-8 inches tall to encourage bushier growth and more flowering branches. Maintain consistent moisture but allow slight drying between waterings.
Flowering
6-12 weeks or until frostLarge, fully double pompom-like flowers appear on branch tips in vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds. Plants become covered with blooms.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Apply balanced or slightly higher phosphorus fertilizer to support flowering. Water consistently during this stage.
Seed Production (if allowed)
4-6 weeks after floweringIf flowers are not deadheaded, they fade and develop seed heads that dry on the plant; seeds turn brown and become harvestable.
Allow a few flowers to mature and dry on the plant if saving seeds. Collect dried seed heads before frost and store in cool, dry location.
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or miticide if severe. Ensure adequate humidity and avoid overhead stress.
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Use yellow sticky traps, spray with insecticidal soap, or apply neem oil. Remove heavily infested leaves.
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Spray with strong water stream, use insecticidal soap, or apply neem oil. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs.
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Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, remove affected foliage. Apply fungicide if severe.
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Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering. Apply sulfur or potassium bicarbonate-based fungicides.
Uses
Edible Garnish & Flavoring
CulinaryMarigold petals are edible and can be used as a colorful garnish for salads, desserts, and beverages. They have a slightly citrusy, peppery flavor and can add visual appeal to culinary presentations. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalMarigold flowers have been used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Dried flowers can be brewed into tea or used to create infusions for skin care and internal wellness. [source]
Natural Dye
HouseholdMarigold flowers contain natural pigments that can be used to create yellow and orange dyes for textiles and crafts. The petals can be dried and processed to produce vibrant, long-lasting colors. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeBonanza marigolds attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with their abundant nectar-rich flowers. They serve as an excellent nectar source throughout the growing season. [source]
Dried Flower Arrangements
CraftThe large, full flowers dry beautifully and can be used in dried floral arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects. They maintain their bright colors well when properly dried. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Deadhead flowers regularly by pinching or cutting just below the flower head to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. For cut flowers, harvest in the early morning when flowers are fully open and stems are turgid. For seed saving, allow 2-3 flowers to mature fully on the plant, then collect dried seed heads before the first frost.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Bonanza marigolds are named after the famous western television series, reflecting their large, bold appearance and reliable, abundant performance in gardens.
- 🌱 Marigolds have been used for centuries in Hindu and Mexican traditions in religious ceremonies, weddings, and Day of the Dead celebrations, symbolizing passion and creativity.
- 🌱 The pungent odor of marigold foliage contains compounds that naturally repel many garden pests, making them valuable companion plants in vegetable gardens and earning them a place in organic pest management strategies.
Gardening Terms
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