Marigold 'Crackerjack' (Tagetes erecta) from McKenzie Seed Company, a giant African marigold with vibrant double flowers
The 'Crackerjack' marigold, also known as African marigold , is a vigorous and impressive variety , prized for its very large double flowers measuring 10 to 12.5 cm in diameter . The flowers, with their dense, downy texture, come in luminous shades of yellow, gold, and bright orange , and are held well above robust, dark green foliage , providing a strong visual impact in flowerbeds.
Easy to grow and extremely hardy , 'Crackerjack' tolerates heat , drought , and variable weather conditions well. It is an ideal plant for borders , flowerbeds , large containers , and low-maintenance gardens. It actively attracts bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators , while being resistant to deer and rabbits and safe for pets . Its abundant and continuous flowering extends from June until the first frost .
Spread/Habit: Upright, bushy
Plant height: Approximately 60 to 90 cm
Seed producer: McKenzie
Seed type: Open pollination
Physical type of seed: Seeds
Quantity per packet: Approximately 175 to 200 seeds
Special features: Large double flowers, very robust, attracts pollinators, excellent performance in beds and containers
Flower colors: Yellow, gold, and bright orange
Flowering period: From June until the first frosts
Tolerance: Drought and heat
Farming method
'Crackerjack' marigold seeds can be sown directly outdoors once the soil has warmed up and all risk of frost has passed . The soil temperature should be above 21°C to ensure rapid and even germination. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of full sun per day, in well-drained soil .
Sow at a depth of 3 mm , gently press down the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact, then water delicately with a fine mist . Keep the soil evenly moist , but not waterlogged, throughout germination, which usually occurs in 5 to 8 days . When the seedlings have developed 2 to 3 pairs of leaves , thin them to a spacing of approximately 30 cm , promoting good air circulation and well-structured plants.
For earlier flowering, seeds can be started indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost , then hardened off and transplanted outdoors once the risk of frost has passed.
Flowering and maintenance
Flowering typically begins 45 to 60 days after sowing and continues steadily until the first frosts . Removing faded flowers encourages continuous production and maintains a neat shape. Moderate watering, about 2.5 cm of water per week , is sufficient once the plants are established.
Usage ideas
• Colorful flowerbeds and borders
• Large containers
• Sunny edges
• Pollinator gardens
• Durable and easy-to-maintain fixtures
McKenzie's 'Crackerjack' marigold is a sure bet for a vibrant and robust garden , combining giant flowers , exceptional hardiness , and a long flowering period . An ideal variety for gardeners who want maximum visual impact with minimal care.
