Cape Marigold Water Needs – Learn How To Water Cape Marigolds
With a more vital focus on today’s water use, many drought conscious gardeners are planting landscapes that require less irrigation. In recent years, the removal of lawns as well as xeriscaping has become increasingly popular. While one may immediately consider the addition of plants such as cacti and succulent foliage, many species of flowers allow for a profusion of colorful blooms specifically suited to this growing habitat. Dimorphotheca, also known as the cape marigold, is a perfect example of a flower which thrives with minimal watering or care from home gardeners.
About Cape Marigold Water Needs
Cape marigolds are small, low-growing flowers that bloom even in arid growing conditions. Planted in spring or in fall (in mild winter areas), the small flowers range in color from white to purple and orange. Cape marigolds differ from many other varieties of flowers in that the appearance of each bloom and the overall shape of the plant improves with decreased watering. While the plants should receive some water each week, too much water will cause the plants to produce leggy green growth. This may even result in drooping flowers when in bloom. Decreased water allows for the plant to remain short and upright.
How to Water Cape Marigolds
When watering cape marigold, extra care should be taken as to avoid watering the foliage of the plant. To do so, many growers choose to use drip irrigation. Since these plants are very susceptible to fungal issues, leaf splash may be the source of development of disease. Additionally, cape marigolds should always be located in well-draining soil as a means to encourage overall healthier plant growth. As the plants begin to flower, cape marigold irrigation should become less frequent. In the case of cape marigold, water (in excess) may inhibit the plant’s ability to properly produce and drop mature seeds for the next season’s plants. Keeping cape marigold flower beds dry (and free from weeds) will help to ensure the successful reseeding of volunteer plants. While many may see this as a positive attribute, it is important to note that there has been cause for concern in regards to possible invasiveness. Before planting, always make certain to research whether or not cape marigolds are considered a nuisance plant where you live. In most cases, this information can be obtained by contacting local agricultural extension offices.
Gardening tips, videos, info and more delivered right to your inbox!
Sign up for the Gardening Know How newsletter today and receive a free download of our DIY eBook "Bring Your Garden Indoors: 13 DIY Projects For Fall And Winter".
Tonya Barnett has been gardening for 13 years. Flowers are her passion. She has transformed her backyard into a cut flower garden, which she regularly chronicles on her YouTube channel http://www.youtube.com/@tonyawiththeflowers.
-
8 Small Trees For Front Yards – Boost Curb Appeal Without Dominating The House
Discover the best small trees for front yards, which make an impact in multiple seasons without overshadowing the rest of the yard.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
-
Beautiful Fall Blooming Shrubs: 7 Flowering Plants For Late Season Interest And Color
While some shrubs fill quiet corners with reliable green tones in autumn, others burst forth with warm, cheerful tones. Try these fall-blooming shrubs for late season hues
By Tonya Barnett
-
Cape Marigold Propagation – How To Propagate African Daisy Flowers
Also known as African daisy, cape marigold (Dimorphotheca) is an African native that produces masses of beautiful, daisy-like blooms. Cape marigold propagation is easy if you can provide plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. Learn how to propagate it here.
By Mary H. Dyer
-
Planting Cape Marigold Seeds: How To Sow Cape Marigold Seeds
Where you live and what your climate is like will determine whether you grow cape marigold as a summer or winter annual. Planting cape marigold seeds is an inexpensive way to get started with this pretty flower. This article will help with that.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
-
Cape Marigold Varieties: Learn About Different Types Of African Daisies
Cape marigolds are always a go-to plant for container designs. Of course, the key to a perfect container design is selecting the perfect varieties of these annual plants. Take a closer look at some of the many available cape marigold varieties in this article.
By Darcy Larum
-
Can You Grow Cape Marigold Cuttings: How To Root Cape Marigold Cuttings
It is easy to get carried away and spend a fortune on small starter cape marigold plants each spring. However, hands-on, budget-minded gardeners may prefer to only buy a few and propagate more cape marigolds from cuttings. This article will help with that.
By Darcy Larum
-
Feeding Cape Marigolds: How To Fertilize Cape Marigolds
Beginner gardeners are able to have great success when planting flowers that are robust and tolerant to adverse conditions. The cape marigold, rewards growers with bright and cheerful flowers, and both watering and feeding cape marigolds couldn’t be easier. Learn more here.
By Tonya Barnett
-
What Is Dimorphotheca: Learn About Dimorphotheca Flowers
Growers who choose to start plants from seed enjoy greater variety, as well as the pride that comes from crafting their own landscapes. One flower, Dimorphotheca, is a perfect example of a flower that can easily be started from seed. Learn more about it in this article.
By Tonya Barnett
-
Dimorphotheca Problems – Troubleshooting Cape Marigold Issues
Also called rain daisy or weather prophet, there are a few varieties of cape marigold but none are related to the marigold in spite of its most common moniker. Cape marigold problems aren’t common, but the minor issues below may affect them. Learn more here.
By Becca Badgett
-
Cape Marigold Information – Growing Cape Marigold Annuals In The Garden
We're all familiar with marigolds - sunny, cheerful plants that brighten the garden all summer long. Don't, however, confuse those old-fashioned favorites with Dimorphotheca cape marigolds, which are a different plant altogether. Learn more here.
By Mary H. Dyer