Cover Crops: Marigold

Table of Contents

  1. Description: Family
  2. Growth Habits
  3. Benefits and Concerns
  4. Getting Started
  5. Related Links

Description

    Figure 1 - Crop of Marigolds

    Figure 1 - Crop of Marigolds

Family

  • Compositae

Growth Habits

Germination

  • annual

Top Growth

  • height growth is cultivar-dependent
  • moderate growth rate
  • stocky plant with lacey leaf growth
  • tough stalks

Root System

  • moderate rate of root growth
  • medium sized root system

Overwintering

  • winterkills

Benefits and Concerns

Pest Management

    non-host for nematodes, suppresses nematode populations

    2 year control achieved in Ontario

    needs to be weed free for nematode suppression

    Getting Started

    Establishment

      seed can be drilled or broadcast

      plant shallow – 1 cm and pack lightly

      seed is light and fluffy – will bridge in seed drill tubes. Some success has been had with mixing seed with pre-cooked dry rice to help flow from seed box in drill

      seed at rate of 1.3 kg/ha

      does not require mowing

    Cost & Availability


For more information:
Toll Free: 1-877-424-1300
Local: (519) 826-4047
E-mail: ag.info.omafra@ontario.ca
Author: Anne Verhallen - Soil Management Specialist (Hort Crops)/OMAFRA; Adam Hayes - Soil Management Specialist (Field Crops)/OMAFRA; Ted Taylor - OMAFRA
Creation Date: June 2001
Last Reviewed: 25 August 2003