When to plant marigold in zone 8a — planting calendar

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Showing USDA Zone 8A

Growing SeasonZone 8a

Last frost ~Mar 25First frost ~Nov 10Today

Start indoorsTransplant / sowHarvestFrost risk

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Start indoors Feb 11 · Sow Mar 25 · First harvest May 9 · Wrap by Aug 29

Last spring frostMar 25

Start seeds indoorsFeb 11

Direct sowMar 25

First harvestMay 9

Last harvestAug 29

First fall frostNov 10

Why these dates work in zone 8a

Zone 8a's last spring frost averages Mar 25 and first fall frost Nov 10 — about 230 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 8a?

Marigold matures in about 45–55 days from sowing. In zone 8a that means sowing around Mar 25 and first picking around May 9.

Will marigold survive frost in zone 8a?

No — marigold is frost-sensitive. In zone 8a, wait until after the last frost (around Mar 25) to plant, and harvest before the first fall frost (around Nov 10).

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