When to plant marigold in zone 9a — planting calendar

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Showing USDA Zone 9A

Growing SeasonZone 9a

Last frost ~Feb 28First frost ~Nov 30Today

Start indoorsTransplant / sowHarvestFrost risk

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Start indoors Jan 17 · Sow Feb 28 · First harvest Apr 14 · Wrap by Aug 4

Last spring frostFeb 28

Start seeds indoorsJan 17

Direct sowFeb 28

First harvestApr 14

Last harvestAug 4

First fall frostNov 30

Why these dates work in zone 9a

Zone 9a's last spring frost averages Feb 28 and first fall frost Nov 30 — about 275 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 9a?

Marigold matures in about 45–55 days from sowing. In zone 9a that means sowing around Feb 28 and first picking around Apr 14.

Will marigold survive frost in zone 9a?

No — marigold is frost-sensitive. In zone 9a, wait until after the last frost (around Feb 28) to plant, and harvest before the first fall frost (around Nov 30).

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