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Marigold Crackerjack

Marigold Crackerjack

Tagetes erecta

flower

Crackerjack is a dwarf to semi-dwarf marigold cultivar known for its large, fully double blooms in shades of orange, yellow, and red that appear on compact, bushy plants. This variety is prized for its prolific flowering habit and heat tolerance, making it an excellent choice for borders, containers, and cut flowers. The vibrant flowers bloom continuously from late spring through fall frost.

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Crackerjack Gold Crackerjack Orange Crackerjack Red Crackerjack Yellow Crackerjack Mix

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun, 6-8 hours daily minimum; 8+ hours preferred for maximum blooms
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Water: Moderate water needs; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at soil level to prevent fungal diseases. Drought-tolerant once established, but blooms best with regular watering.
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Spacing: 12-18 inches
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Days to maturity: 50-70 days from seed to first blooms
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Planting depth: Surface sow or press seeds lightly into soil; do not cover as seeds need light to germinate

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy or sandy soil
pH: 6.0-7.5
Amendments:
compost aged manure perlite for drainage

Growing Zones

Find your zone β†’

Thrives as an annual in zones 2-11; performs best in warm zones 5-10

2a 2b 3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b 11a

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Growth Stages

1

Seedling

2-3 weeks

Tiny seedlings emerge with cotyledons and first true leaves appearing within 5-10 days of germination

Keep soil moist but not soggy. Provide bright light immediately. Thin seedlings to prevent damping-off. Maintain temps around 70-75Β°F.

2

Vegetative Growth

3-4 weeks

Plant develops multiple sets of true leaves and bushy growth; foliage is abundant and leafy with no buds yet visible

Pinch back growing tips when 6 inches tall to encourage branching and bushier form. Continue regular watering. Feed with balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks.

3

Bud Formation

2-3 weeks

First flower buds appear at branch tips; plant continues to grow laterally while buds develop and swell

Reduce nitrogen fertilizer; switch to bloom-promoting fertilizer higher in phosphorus and potassium. Maintain consistent moisture.

4

Flowering

8-12 weeks until frost

Large double flower heads open in succession; multiple buds develop continuously as blooms fade

Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Water at base to keep foliage dry. Feed every 2-3 weeks with flowering fertilizer.

5

Decline/Frost

Variable based on first frost date

Flowering slows as temperatures drop; plant becomes leggy and stops producing new buds after first hard frost

Remove entire plant after killing frost. Harvest seeds from final flowers if desired for next season.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden β†’

Plant with:

basil nasturtium zinnia cosmos alyssum salvia verbena tomato

Avoid planting near:

fennel dill

Common Pests

  • Spray with strong water stream or use insecticidal soap. Increase humidity. Apply neem oil if severe.

  • Use yellow sticky traps. Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Remove heavily infested leaves.

  • Spray with water or insecticidal soap. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs. Apply neem oil if needed.

  • Ensure good air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Apply sulfur dust or fungicide if severe. Remove infected leaves.

  • and

    Remove by hand in early morning. Use beer traps or barriers. Apply diatomaceous earth around base.

Uses

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Edible garnish and flavoring

Culinary

Marigold petals have a slightly citrusy, peppery flavor and are used as garnish in salads, desserts, and beverages. The petals can also be dried for herbal teas. [source]

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Traditional herbal remedy

Medicinal

Marigold has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Infusions and salves are traditionally applied to wounds and skin irritations. [source]

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Natural dye production

Household

Marigold flowers produce vibrant yellow, orange, and red dyes used for fabrics and natural food coloring. The petals contain carotenoid pigments that create long-lasting colors. [source]

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Cut and dried flowers

Craft

The double blooms of Crackerjack are excellent for fresh flower arrangements and dry well for long-lasting floral crafts, wreaths, and potpourri. [source]

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Pollinator attraction

Wildlife

Marigolds attract beneficial insects including bees, butterflies, and parasitic wasps that help control garden pests, making them valuable for integrated pest management. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

For cut flowers, harvest in early morning when blooms are fully open. Cut stems at an angle and place in cool water immediately. Deadhead faded flowers regularly by pinching or cutting off spent blooms at the base to promote continuous flowering. For seeds, allow a few flowers to remain on plant at end of season; collect dried seed heads when brown and crispy.

Fun Facts

  • 🌱 Marigolds are known as 'nature's pesticide' and are commonly planted with vegetables to deter harmful insects and nematodes in the soil.
  • 🌱 The name 'Crackerjack' refers to the plant's outstanding performance and prolific blooming habitβ€”it was coined to describe something of exceptional quality.
  • 🌱 Marigolds have been cultivated for over 500 years and were sacred flowers to the Aztecs, who called them 'flowers of the dead' and used them in religious ceremonies.

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