What's Growing
Marigold
Tagetes
Marigolds are a part of the genus Tagetes. There are many species of marigolds. Members of the species have bright warm colors, inviting shades of yellow, orange, and red. Bracts (leaves below the flower head) are cup-shaped.
Harvesting
If you would like to harvest marigold seeds, do so when the petals are dry and after the seed pods (the bottom of the bloom) have turned brown. To harvest, remove each flower head from its stem.
Uses
Medicinally, marigold has been known to soothe skin conditions like bruises and excema or sunburn. Culturally, species such as the Meixcan marigold are a symbol of Día de Los Muertos. On the farm, we often use marigolds as a way to attract pollinators to nearby vegetables and herbs.
