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Marigold Mayhem.

charles_petchcharles_petch Posts: 4
in Problem solving
Hello all. My first post so hope someone can advise.

I have been growing the petite/dwarf (they grow to about 6" - 9" high), marigolds for many years. I have always used the same supplier. Started them off from seed in compost. Germinated them in the airing cupboard. Placed them in a bright location in conservatory when germinated. Pricked out when second leaves show. Grow on in sunny but not stifling location. When big enough transfer to my patio pots with fresh compost and a little feed.

The problem is that over the last 2 years instead of being petite 6" - 9" they have soared to 36". Covered in loads of flowers but completely out of place in their pots. Even the surplus ones I planted out in the borders are 36" tall.
As I mentioned I have done nothing different over the past 2 years from my previous 20+ years of successful growing.

Any tips/suggestions where the problem might be. Thanks
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Posts

  • punkdocpunkdoc Posts: 15,039
    I don't think it can be regarded as a problem, there is nothing you could have done, that would make them grow that much bigger. it is likely to be the seed itself which is the issue.
    How can you lie there and think of England
    When you don't even know who's in the team

    S.Yorkshire/Derbyshire border
  • charles_petchcharles_petch Posts: 4
    Thanks for the reply. I must admit that I thought it might be the seed, but 2 years running having the same seed issue was my concern. I may need to look to a different seed supplier.
  • punkdocpunkdoc Posts: 15,039
    That is what I would do, or try a different type of marigold.
    How can you lie there and think of England
    When you don't even know who's in the team

    S.Yorkshire/Derbyshire border
  • charles_petchcharles_petch Posts: 4
    I think that is going to be my best option although I'm not sure which other variety would result in the petite/dwarf plants that I want.
  • Desi_in_LondonDesi_in_London Posts: 731
    For what it's worth, I grow tagetes patula ( informal name french marigold ) queen sophia from seed. They are a mix of double and single / semi-double flowers . 

    If something has grown 36 inches the only thing I can think is that you have been sent african marigold ( tagetes erecta ) seeds in error ?  Depending on aspect /whether they are in a rose pot ( ie getting watered and fed ) or being ignored , they seem to get anywhere from about 15-20 cm hi by same wide ( looking a bit weedy) , to more like 25-30 cm by 25-30cm ( looking lush and healthy). I don't know where you are based, but I just germinate at room temp ( with a transparent cover) without extra heat. 

    Tagetes patula 'Queen Sophia'|French marigold 'Queen Sophia'/RHS Gardening


    ( i am assuming you mean marigolds ( tagetes) not pot marigolds ( calendula))

    Kindness is always the right choice.
  • JacquimcmahonJacquimcmahon Posts: 1,039
    Had a similar situation this year , some, but not all of the plants became huge. Lovely and lush, loads of flowers but swamped the other plants to a point I had to dig things out and move. 
    Marne la vallée, basically just outside Paris 🇫🇷, but definitely Scottish at heart.
  • GardenerSuzeGardenerSuze Posts: 5,692
    I have grown Tagetes Patula Burning Embers for the first time this year they are about 1ft tall.Purchased from Chiltern seeds I expected them to be taller at 18 inches. My garden isn't at all formal but I will grow them next year.
    I have worked as a Gardener for 24 years. My latest garden is a new build garden on heavy clay.
  • DovefromaboveDovefromabove Posts: 88,147
    Chiltern Seeds sell a ‘petite’ tagetes … they’re the most reputable company I’ve come across … I buy from them every year and have never received the wrong seeds. 


    Gardening in Central Norfolk on improved gritty moraine over chalk ... free-draining.





  • charles_petchcharles_petch Posts: 4
    Thanks to everyone who was kind enough to respond and make suggestions. I'll certainly be checking out the Chiltern seeds. 
    It's amazing how what was a simple exercise of growing petite marigolds for the patio pots for the past 20 year has now become a bit of a head scratcher regarding choosing a completely different type of seed.
    Still, all part of the fun and enjoyment of gardening.
    Once again, thanks to everyone.
  • GardenerSuzeGardenerSuze Posts: 5,692
    edited August 2022
    When I ordered from them last year I then received a catalogue. I would say it was the very best I have ever seen for any plant or seed. However I did contact them and say I will buy on line as I don't want to waste paper. I must have missed a tick box or something as it has happened with Sarah Raven and Claire Austin too.If you have a catalogue you don't want it is good to pass to a friend who might enjoy it. 
    I have worked as a Gardener for 24 years. My latest garden is a new build garden on heavy clay.
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