Lemon and Orange Gem varieties have a history dating back to 1798 makes them an heirloom treasure, and their unparalleled fragrance is what truly sets them apart. Unlike the more pungent French or African marigolds, these signet marigolds (Tagetes tenuifolia) have a fresh, citrusy, herbal scent that can be downright intoxicating.
Their delicate, single-petaled blooms in shades of yellow and orange completely cover the plant, creating a long-lasting display of colour from early summer until frost. The fine, lacy foliage is just as aromatic as the flowers, releasing its scent when brushed or crushed. Their long bloom time, coupled with their compact, bushy growth habit, makes them perfect for containers, borders, and pollinator gardens.
Not only are they beautiful and fragrant, but they are also highly edible. The flowers bring a mild citrusy flavour to salads, desserts, and drinks, while the leaves have a more complex herbal note. In the garden, they act as natural pest deterrents while attracting bees and butterflies.
Growing Lemon & Orange Gem Marigolds (Tagetes tenuifolia)
Planting:
Start indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost or direct sow after the danger of frost has passed.
Sow seeds ¼ inch deep in well-draining soil.
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged until germination (5–14 days).
Growing Conditions:
Sun: Full sun (at least 6–8 hours daily).
Soil: Well-draining, moderately fertile soil. Avoid overly rich soil, which can reduce flowering.
Spacing: 6–12 inches apart for compact, bushy growth.
Care:
Water moderately; allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
No heavy fertilization needed—too much nitrogen encourages leaves over flowers.
Deadheading isn’t necessary, but removing spent blooms can encourage even more flowers.
Blooming Period:
Blooms from early summer until frost with continuous flowers.
Companion Planting & Uses:
Naturally repels pests like aphids and whiteflies.
Attracts pollinators and beneficial insects.
Excellent for containers, borders, and vegetable gardens.
Edible flowers can be used in salads, teas, and desserts.
A low-maintenance, high-reward flower that brings beauty, fragrance, and flavour to any garden!
These heirloom flower seeds are available directly from Garden Faerie Botanicals in the heart of British Columbia, Canada. The collection features heirloom and heritage seeds that are personally cultivated organically without the use of any chemicals. Emphasizing historical, rare, non-GMO seeds, this selection preserves biodiversity through open-pollination.
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