Strawberry Blonde Marigold Seeds — Tagetes patula

The Marigold That Broke the Mould

Forget everything you thought you knew about marigolds. Strawberry Blonde (Tagetes patula) is a French Marigold unlike any other — its blooms open in a warm, blushing mix of strawberry pink, soft apricot, cream, and golden yellow, with petals that deepen and shift in colour as the flower matures. The effect is soft, romantic, and utterly charming — a world away from the bold oranges and yellows of traditional marigolds. Compact and bushy, it's perfect for borders, pots, and edging, and it flowers its heart out all summer long.

Why Gardeners Love It

• 🍓 Unique strawberry-blonde colouring — soft pinks, apricots, creams, and golds that shift beautifully as blooms mature
• 📏 Compact and tidy — grows to just 20–23 cm tall and wide, perfect for pots, borders, and edging
• 🌞 Prolific bloomer — flowers continuously from early summer right through to the first frosts
• 🐝 Pollinator friendly — bees and hoverflies love the open, accessible blooms
• 🌿 Easy to grow — fast-germinating and low-maintenance, great for beginners and experienced gardeners alike
• 🦪 Natural pest deterrent — marigolds are well known for deterring aphids and whitefly when planted near vegetables

Growing Tips for New Zealand

Sow indoors from August onwards, or direct sow once all frost risk has passed from October. Strawberry Blonde germinates quickly in warm conditions — usually within 5–7 days. Transplant or thin to 20–25 cm apart in a sunny position with well-drained soil. Deadhead regularly to keep the blooms coming all season. An excellent companion plant for vegetable gardens, and stunning massed in pots or along path edges.

What's in the Packet

Each packet contains 15 seeds of Strawberry Blonde Marigold (Tagetes patula).