Marigold (French) Firebird Flower Seeds

Sow Marigold Firebird seeds indoors from late winter to early spring, around March to April, to give them the best start. You can also sow them directly outside in late spring, after the last frost has passed, when the soil has warmed up. If sowing indoors, use seed trays with good-quality compost and provide a warm, bright environment. Transplant seedlings outdoors once they are large enough to handle and after the risk of frost has passed. If you prefer, you can sow them directly outdoors in April and May.

No, Marigold Firebird is not hardy. All Tagetes marigolds, including the Marigold Firebird, are considered tender or half-hardy annuals in the UK. French marigolds can’t survive outdoors in the winter as they won’t tolerate cold temperatures, so it’s important to avoid planting seedlings outdoors until after the last frost (usually around mid-March to late April).

No, Marigold Firebirds are not perennials. Like all French marigolds (Tagetes patula), they are annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle in one year. They germinate and grow during spring, bloom throughout summer, then lose their flowers, set seed and die off in late autumn. French marigolds create a fantastic, long-lasting display in their flowering season, but you will need to sow new seeds each year.