Tagetes patula 'Red Cherry' is a robust Half-Hardy Annual (H2). Unlike the taller 'African' varieties, French Marigolds are more compact, bushier, and possess excellent weather resistance, making them ideal for the unpredictable British summer.

The Companion Hero: Marigolds are a cornerstone of organic gardening. Their roots release thiophene, a chemical that biologically suppresses harmful soil nematodes. Simultaneously, the pungent scent of the foliage acts as a natural masking agent, confusing airborne pests like whitefly and aphids that would otherwise target your crops.

Biodiversity & Soil Health: Beyond pest control, 'Red Cherry' is a magnet for hoverflies—predatory insects whose larvae feast on aphids. Over time, the thiophene released by their roots has even been found to help clear soil of persistent weeds like ground elder and bindweed, making them a true "working plant" for any healthy garden.

Marigolds are exceptionally reliable and among the fastest annuals to grow from seed, often germinating in just 5-7 days.

How to Sow:
Sow indoors from February to April for the earliest flowers, or direct sow outdoors in May/June once the soil has warmed. Surface sow the seeds onto moist seed compost and cover with only a very fine layer of vermiculite. Maintain a consistent temperature of 20-25°C for rapid germination.

Where to Plant:
Only plant out in June once all risk of frost has passed. They demand full sun to maintain their compact, mound-forming habit and ensure maximum flower production. They are not fussy about soil type and will thrive even in poor, dry ground.

Ongoing Care:
The secret to a long display is diligent deadheading. Regularly snap off spent flower heads to prevent the plant from setting seed; this forces it to put all its energy into fresh buds. In early summer, keep an eye out for slugs, as they find young marigold foliage particularly delicious—protect them with organic pellets or copper tape until they are established.

'Red Cherry' is the ultimate functional partner for your vegetable patch and containers. Pair it with these available stars from our collection:

• 🍅 Tomato 'Gardener's Delight': The Bodyguard. Plant Marigolds at the base of your tomato vines. Their pungent scent helps to mask the smell of the tomato foliage, confusing whiteflies, while their roots improve soil health and deter harmful pests below ground.
• 💙 Lobelia 'Crystal Palace': The Visual Contrast. For a decorative, high-impact container, pair the deep mahogany-red of 'Red Cherry' with the intense, midnight navy-blue of 'Crystal Palace'. The colours naturally vibrate against each other, creating a rich, regal aesthetic.

Sow indoors in spring for non-stop multi-tonal blooms from early summer until the first frosts of November.