When to plant marigold in zone 10a — planting calendar

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Showing USDA Zone 10A

Growing SeasonZone 10a

Last frost ~Jan 31First frost ~Dec 15Today

Start indoorsTransplant / sowHarvestFrost risk

DECJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJUL

Start indoors Dec 20 · Sow Jan 31 · First harvest Mar 17 · Wrap by Jul 7

Last spring frostJan 31

Start seeds indoorsDec 20

Direct sowJan 31

First harvestMar 17

Last harvestJul 7

First fall frostDec 15

Why these dates work in zone 10a

Zone 10a's last spring frost averages Jan 31 and first fall frost Dec 15 — about 318 frost-free days. Marigold is frost-sensitive, so the around last frost timing builds in a safety margin against a late cold snap — setting plants out too early risks losing them to frost. Starting seeds indoors 6 weeks ahead gives strong transplants ready the moment the soil warms.

Common questions

How long does marigold take to grow in zone 10a?

Marigold matures in about 45–55 days from sowing. In zone 10a that means sowing around Jan 31 and first picking around Mar 17.

Will marigold survive frost in zone 10a?

No — marigold is frost-sensitive. In zone 10a, wait until after the last frost (around Jan 31) to plant, and harvest before the first fall frost (around Dec 15).

For soil, spacing, pests and companion planting, see the full marigold growing guide →