How to Grow Marigolds in Pots for Balconies, Patios, & Small Spaces

I used to think that growing flowers required a large garden. It turns out that all you need are the correct plants, a few pots, and a sunny location. 

And marigolds are my favorite choice because they are resilient, vibrant, and ideal for small areas. 

Then, you’ll show how to grow marigolds in pots so that you can turn your patio or balcony into a miniature flower garden!

Types of Marigolds You Can Grow In Pots

Not all marigold varieties are the same. Some grow bold and talk, while others are neat and compact. Below are 3 types that I’ve tried to grow in pots:

French Marigolds

These little fellows bloom constantly and are quite easy to care for. Their tidy, bushy shape makes them ideal for balconies or tiny patios. 

French Marigold comes in warm yellow, orange, and red hues. Most varieties grow between 6 – 12 inches tall.

African Marigolds

This is my favorite! This type of marigold is stunning, bold, and showy. They have large, fluffy blossoms that can be up to 4 inches wide. They can grow up to 3 feet, taller than French marigolds. 

However, they still look great when grouped or standing tall by themselves. You can grow them in big pots.

Signet Marigolds

If you love something more delicate, I suggest you pick signet marigolds. They bring a gentle, wildflower feel with their tiny, daisy-like flowers and lacy leaves.

The flowers have a lovely citrusy flavor and are edible (I often add those petals to my salads. It’s really tasty!)

Signet marigolds grow well in pots with good drainage and lots of sunlight. They are about 12 inches high. But don’t worry, they are still compact enough to grow in pots.

Pick The Right Pots For Marigolds

You need a pot, right? The right pot or container plays a big role in how well your marigold will grow. Keep in mind these tips when picking one: 

The Pot Size

Depending on the type of marigold you’re growing, you can choose the appropriate pot size. Here’s a simple guide:

Marigolds don’t have very deep roots, so don’t use too deep containers. Too much soil can hold water longer than necessary, which might cause root rot. 

Consider Drainage

Marigolds love watering but hate wet feet. Therefore, make sure to use a pot with lots of drainage holes at the bottom. You can drill some of them yourself if your pot doesn’t have any.  

Types of Materials

The material you choose affects both plant health and how easy the pot is to manage. Here’s what I’ve learned:

I really love to place my marigolds in those eye-catching ceramic pots. It adds some artistic feel to my patios. The ceramic pot is expensive, but I’m totally satisfied with the vibe it brings to my space. 

Prepare The Soil

Any type of plant needs the right soil to support its best growth. This is how you can prepare the soil for planting marigolds:

Step 1 – Use a well-draining, light potting mix

• The easiest way is to buy a commercial flower-labeled potting mix 
• Or else, you can create your own. I often do this by mixing equal parts of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite. 

Step 2 – Fill the pot

Add the prepared potting mix above to your pot. Ensure to leave about 1 inch of space at the top.

Step 3 – Mix in slow-release fertilizer

Yep – Your marigolds need eating as well! So, don’t forget to sprinkle some fertilizer into the potting mix and blend it well. 

Step 4 – Water the soil before planting

• The soil should be damp, not soggy
• Let it drain for a few minutes before adding your marigold plants

How to Grow Marigolds In Pots

Now, it’s time to learn how to grow marigolds in pots. But first, you will need a handful of marigold seeds. Let’s get started! 

Step 1: Sow Marigold Seeds

• Sow the marigold seeds about ½ inch deep in the potting mix you’ve prepared above.
• Gently cover the marigold seeds with soil
• Carefully water the soil until it is damp but not wet (remember, marigolds hate wet feet!)
• Keep the soil continuously moist and place the pot in a sunny location until the seeds grow
• Thin out the seedlings as soon as they emerge. This gives enough space for them to develop into a healthy plant.

Step 2: Transplant the Seedlings

When your seedlings reach a height of about 2 inches, it’s time to provide them with a suitable habitat to grow. 

• Fill a larger pot with fresh potting soil
• Make a small hole in the middle of the pot. (You can use a small shovel or fingers to do this.)
• Carefully remove the seedling from the starter pot & tuck it into the new hole
• Fill in around the plant with soil
• Water the seedling gently to settle it in place

Step 3: Care For Marigolds in Pots

To help your potted marigolds grow happy and blooming, you need to know how to care for them properly:

Watering

• Marigolds love moist (but not soggy) soil.
• Water deeply when you see the top inch dry.
• My alert: Never water marigolds on the leaves. Always water at the base of your marigold plants. This will prevent rot and pests.

Placement

• Make sure your marigolds receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. Marigolds love to grow in the sunshine! 
• Move the pot to an area with afternoon shade if the weather is too hot.

Fertilizing

• During the growing season, I usually feed my marigold plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks. This will help my plants grow better and give many stunning flowers. 

My advice: For the best results, follow the instructions on the label of the fertilizer you buy. 

Pests & Diseases

• I often examine my marigolds and watch for powdery mildew, spider mites, and aphids. 
• If you see any, use natural treatments, such as insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can easily buy them from a garden supply store near your place. 

Last Words

And now, you know how to grow marigolds. It’s not so tricky, right? I love potted marigolds because you can move them around whenever you need them. 

Sometimes I place them on the patios, and sometimes on the balconies (or in the house, everywhere you like). 

So, what are you waiting for? Grow your own marigolds!