Marigold, Ildkongen (Organic)
Tagetes patula. 65 days.
We have been growing this stunning heritage marigold since 2007 and are excited to have enough harvested and cleaned to share. Ildkongen is not your average marigold. While other marigolds are short, Ildkongen forms tall bushy plants that grow to 4′ and produce lots of flowers right up until frost. Bloom color ranges from fiery red to dark orange and yellow mottled-orange on the same plant depending on the age of plant and/or temperatures. Color can transform slowly over the course of the season, in our garden early flowers are more dark red, later flowers are paler. This boisterous, assertive plant is aptly named – Ildkongen is Danish for Fire King. A Seed Ambassadors Project variety that is common in Denmark and was given to us by our friends at Frøosamlerne, the Danish seed saving organization.
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Sow shallowly in flats indoors in spring, 4-6 weeks before planting out. Transplant this tender annual to 12-18” centers when danger of frost has passed. May also be direct sown when soil is warm. Prefers full sun & well-drained soil. May self-seed.
Seed Saving
Collect seeds from seedheads that are fully dry. Thresh by hand or by shaking branches into a bucket, screen out large debris and fan winnow to remove light seeds. Dry seeds completely before sealing in airtight container. Cross-pollination may occur; isolate from other varieties of the same species by 1/4 mile.
Melissa Parade (verified owner) –
Where did you grow this variety? Northeastern US
Excellent germination and vigorous plants. Very tall, bushy, and continuous bloom, as described. I loved the strong color. I’ll grow them again this year throughout the garden for the color and pollinators.
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