african marigolds from seed

Discussion in 'General Gardening Discussion' started by chester3, Jun 29, 2009.

  1. chester3

    chester3 Apprentice Gardener

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    When I grew african marigolds from seed in the greenhouse a few years ago, they all germinated OK but the plants had long stalks and fell over when I planted them out.

    I bought some from a nursery this year, they were really bushy - totally different.

    Can anyone throw any light on what I did wrong ?
     
    chester3, Jun 29, 2009
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  2. Kristen

    Kristen Under gardener

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    African Marigolds = quite tall

    French Marigolds = short and stubby

    Mexican Marigolds = Giraffe-ically tall!
     
    Kristen, Jun 29, 2009
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  3. JWK

    JWK Gardener Staff Member

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    Chester; Assuming we are comparing like with like then there are a few reasons why plants become too tall:
    - Too much warmth early in their life (maybe kept in your greenhouse too long?)
    - Not thinned out quickly enough - maybe you had them too close together in your seed tray?
    - Too shaded forcing them to bolt for some light?
    - Too much feed - a high nitrogen fertilizer will encourage plants to grow too much leaf early on.
     
    JWK, Jun 29, 2009
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  4. chester3

    chester3 Apprentice Gardener

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    Thanks Kristen and JWK. Will try again next year!
     
    chester3, Jun 30, 2009
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