Marigold French Red Knight Seeds

Compact French marigold with richly coloured single and semi double blooms in deep red and crimson tones, often edged or flecked with darker shading; forms neat bushy clumps that give a long season of bright colour in borders, containers and bedding schemes.

 

Red Knight is valued for its bold colour contrast, compact habit and suitability for close planting in decorative displays.

 

Seed Qty Approx 30

 

Sow March to June under cover for earlier displays

Germination 7 to 14 days at 18 to 22°C; sowing under cover produces earlier flowering

Soil Fertile well drained loam or multi purpose compost with good organic matter; tolerates lighter soils

Height 20 to 35 cm depending on spacing and strain

Flowering From early summer through autumn until first hard frost; deadhead regularly to encourage continuous bloom

Good Companions Tomatoes; basil; aubergine; bedding plants and vegetables where marigolds help deter certain pests

Avoid Pairing With Very Shade Loving Plants that will be outcompeted for light

 

Sowing Instructions

 

Sow thinly in trays or modules March to May under cover and keep at 18 to 22°C; cover lightly with fine compost or vermiculite. Prick out seedlings when true leaves form and harden off before planting out after all risk of frost. For direct sowing choose April to June in prepared beds and thin to 20 to 30 cm apart depending on desired effect. Space plants closer for a dense carpet or slightly wider for individual clumps.

 

Grow and Maintenance

 

Plant in full sun to light shade and water regularly until established; avoid waterlogging. Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser during peak growth to sustain prolific flowering. Remove spent blooms to prolong the display and reduce seed set if you prefer continuous flowering rather than volunteer seedlings.

 

French marigolds are low maintenance, heat tolerant and ideal for borders, containers and companion planting. Rotate in vegetable beds annually to reduce soil borne pests.