When to plant marigold in zone 7a — planting calendar

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Showing USDA Zone 7A

Growing SeasonZone 7a

Last frost ~Apr 15First frost ~Oct 25Today

Start indoorsTransplant / sowHarvestFrost risk

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Start indoors Mar 4 · Sow Apr 15 · First harvest May 30 · Wrap by Sep 19

Last spring frostApr 15

Start seeds indoorsMar 4

Direct sowApr 15

First harvestMay 30

Last harvestSep 19

First fall frostOct 25

Why these dates work in zone 7a

Zone 7a's last spring frost averages Apr 15 and first fall frost Oct 25 — about 193 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 7a?

Marigold matures in about 45–55 days from sowing. In zone 7a that means sowing around Apr 15 and first picking around May 30.

Will marigold survive frost in zone 7a?

No — marigold is frost-sensitive. In zone 7a, wait until after the last frost (around Apr 15) to plant, and harvest before the first fall frost (around Oct 25).

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