Mexican Marigold (Tagetes minuta)

Mexican Marigold

Tagetes minuta

Pungent foliage repels garden pests, a hardy annual herb with bright golden blooms. Common names: Mexican marigold, stinking roger.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Requires full sun exposure for optimal flowering; tolerates partial shade but will produce fewer blooms
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm temperatures; frost-sensitive, so avoid exposure to temperatures below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Fern-like, pinnately compound leaves with a strong, pungent scent when crushed
  • Flower: Clusters of small, bright golden-yellow daisy-like flower heads
  • Stem: Erect, branching green stems covered in fine, soft hairs
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growing periods

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 2 weeks. Stop fertilizing once flowering peaks to avoid excessive foliage growth

Banana peel compost tea:Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20, and apply as a root drench to support flower production
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower heads regularly to encourage continuous blooming
  • Pinch back young stem tips to promote bushier, more compact growth
  • Remove yellowing or damaged foliage to improve airflow and reduce pest habitat
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirms no toxic effects; rare mild gastrointestinal upset only if extremely large amounts are eaten

Humans: Mild oral irritation or nausea may occur if large quantities of foliage are ingested

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Used as a companion plant to repel nematodes and aphids from vegetable gardens

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; source of essential oils for aromatherapy; traditional medicinal use for anti-inflammatory properties