The Start of a Marigold Flower Field Trial

 

 

Hi! I’m Karen Stauderman, a Commercial Horticulture Extension Agent for the University of Florida based out of Volusia County. Often in extension, we receive lots of questions on what to grow in Florida to make money or what may be successful in our landscapes. One way to ascertain if new crops work is to test them out in a field trial. Field trials serve as a quick glimpse into the success or failure of the crop.

 

 

Why Marigolds?

A little background first. Small-flowered marigolds are usually found in landscape beds as colorful annuals.  However, they are also used in the cut flower industry in California, Texas and other warm weather climates. These flowers are popular at weddings in Hindu cultures and play a prominent role in décor on the Day-of-the-Dead celebrations (Nov 1^st) in Hispanic cultures. The marigolds are made into decorative garlands, head wreaths, or bridal party necklaces when they tie the bright blossoms together with string.

 

 

My objective is to trial six cultivars to determine if any of them are feasible for Florida in a spring planting and potential a late summer/fall planting. Your guess is as good as mine! Here is the start of my Commercial Horticulture Extension field trial that began in the early spring (February) in Central Florida. This is the first of the videos in which you’ll be allowed to follow the progress of the trial.

Check it out! Click on the link below

https://www.facebook.com/karen.palanukstauderman/videos/1380157206165287 For more information on growing marigolds in your landscape, contact your local extension agent in your county.