African Marigold 'Cracker Jack' organic
du produit
Organic African marigold 'Cracker Jack' ( Tagetes erecta ) from the seed company Gaia, a bright and protective bloom in the garden
African Marigold 'Cracker Jack' is a hardy and vigorous heirloom variety , famous for its spectacular blooms in bright shades of yellow, gold and orange . Its large, fully double flowers , perched on sturdy stems reaching up to 75-90cm in height , make it an ideal choice for beds, borders and cut flower gardens .
Easy to grow and low maintenance, this plant brightens up the garden while playing a key role in crop protection . It is known to repel many pests , including soil nematodes and some insect pests , making it an excellent choice in association with garden vegetables .
A valuable ally for the garden
Beyond its flamboyant beauty , the African marigold 'Cracker Jack' is a true protector of the vegetable garden . Its root system produces natural substances that repel nematodes , thus preserving the health of surrounding crops. In addition to its ability to deter certain harmful insects , its flowers attract pollinators , contributing to biodiversity and the production of fruits and vegetables .
Formerly used in traditional medicines , it was also valued for its medicinal properties and its ability to color fabrics and foods .
Spread: Upright and branched habit
Plant height: 75 to 90 cm
Quantity per pack: ± 200 seeds
Companion plants: Throughout the garden (beneficial for most vegetables), brassicas, potatoes
Enemy Plants: Coming Soon
Cultivation method
African Marigold 'Cracker Jack' is easily grown in the ground or in pots , as long as the soil is well drained and the exposure is full sun .
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost , pressing the seeds lightly into the soil , then covering them with a thin layer of substrate . Germination in 7 to 10 days , at a temperature of 21 to 25°C .
After the last frost, transplant the young plants, spacing them 25-30 cm (10-12") apart, with rows 40-45 cm (16-18") apart.
For abundant flowering , regularly remove faded flowers , which encourages the continued production of new flowers.
Harvest and uses
- Pick flowers at the peak of their brilliance , to incorporate them into bright, long-lasting bouquets.
- Use the petals in an infusion , known for their digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits .
- Transform them into natural dye , used to dye fabrics and foods.
Ideas for use in the garden and in everyday life
- Add them to the vegetable garden , along the edge of rows of vegetables, for their natural repellent effect against parasites.
- Combine them with brassicas (cabbage, broccoli, radishes), tomatoes or potatoes , where they help to keep pests away.
- Plant them in planters and flowerbeds for a continuous explosion of color until the first frosts.
- Add their petals to salads for a decorative and slightly spicy touch.
