Growing Marigolds in Zone 8B

Marigolds are the gardener’s best friend — they repel pests, attract pollinators, and brighten any bed.

Zone 8B enjoys a long growing season. You can often get two plantings of cool-season crops (spring and fall).

Top Growing Tips

• French marigolds are best for pest control; African types are taller and showier
• Plant around tomatoes, peppers, and squash to deter pests
• Root secretions suppress nematodes — plant where you’ll grow tomatoes next year
• Deadhead spent flowers for continuous blooming
• Easy to direct sow or start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost

Companion Planting

Good companions: tomatoes, peppers, squash, beans — almost everything!

Avoid planting near: none — marigolds are universal companions

Harvest Timeline

Flowering begins 50-60 days from seed; save seeds from dried flower heads

About Zone 8B

USDA Hardiness Zone 8B has an average last spring frost around Mar 12 and first fall frost around Nov 18. All planting dates above are calculated from these frost dates. Your specific location may vary — check with your local extension office for the most accurate dates.