When to plant marigold in zone 9b — planting calendar

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Showing USDA Zone 9B

Growing SeasonZone 9b

Last frost ~Feb 15First frost ~Dec 10Today

Start indoorsTransplant / sowHarvestFrost risk

DECJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUG

Start indoors Jan 4 · Sow Feb 15 · First harvest Apr 1 · Wrap by Jul 22

Last spring frostFeb 15

Start seeds indoorsJan 4

Direct sowFeb 15

First harvestApr 1

Last harvestJul 22

First fall frostDec 10

Why these dates work in zone 9b

Zone 9b's last spring frost averages Feb 15 and first fall frost Dec 10 — about 298 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 9b?

Marigold matures in about 45–55 days from sowing. In zone 9b that means sowing around Feb 15 and first picking around Apr 1.

Will marigold survive frost in zone 9b?

No — marigold is frost-sensitive. In zone 9b, wait until after the last frost (around Feb 15) to plant, and harvest before the first fall frost (around Dec 10).

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