how do I start marigold seeds - Knowledgebase Question

Otisville, NY (Zone 6A)
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Question by shauncie_n
April 28, 2005
I have had marigold seeds (I collected from last year plant)started for awhile I have some seeds deeper then others but none of my seeds have sprouted.what am I doing wrong?


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Answer from NGA
April 28, 2005
There are several possible reasons they might not grow. One is poor handling: they needed to be mature and dry when harvested, then stored dry at a steady room temperature (or in a closed container in the refrigerator) until planting. Next is planting. You would use a barely moist soilless potting mix and clean tools, plant the seeds about a quarter inch deep, press lightly but firmly to make sure there is good seed to soil contact, then water lightly to settle the soil. Cover the container with plastic wrap to maintain humidity and set it in a bright location but out of direct sun (to avoid overheating). They should germinate in about a week at a room temperature of 73 degrees or so. In a colder room it might take a little longer, in a warmer room it might be faster. Deeper planting can delay it also. If it seems like all that went right, then it is possible the plant you took the seed from was a hybrid that would not set viable seed, or something else happened such as overwatering or overheating. I hope this helps you troubleshoot.

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