Winter Marigold Care: Marigold is one of the most favorite flowers in winter but due to cold wave and frost its plants often start withering. Cold wind, less sunlight and sudden falling temperatures affect both the number and quality of flowers. The good thing is that with a little wisdom and proper care, marigolds can continue to bloom even in cold weather. If you want the marigold to keep spreading color and fragrance in your garden even during cold days, then these measures are very useful.
The biggest danger in cold wave is frost which can burn the leaves and buds of marigold. It is important to protect the plants from direct cold air at night. For this, cover the pots or beds lightly with a sack, cotton cloth or old sheet in the evening. Take care that the cover does not press the plant, but just protects it from above. Remove the cloth as soon as the sun rises in the morning so that moisture does not accumulate. If the plants are in pots, then keep them near the wall or verandah, where the effect of cold wind is less.
Marigold is a sun loving plant and needs at least 5–6 hours of direct sunlight in winter. There is less sunlight during cold wave days, hence it is important to see that the plants are kept in the sunniest place. If there are tall trees or walls in the garden, then remove the marigold from there and plant it in an open space. By getting sufficient sunlight, the plant remains strong and the problem of flower fall is reduced.
Marigold does not require much water in winter. In winter, the soil remains wet for a long time and excessive watering can cause the roots to rot. Water only when the top surface of the soil feels dry. It would be better to water in the morning so that excess moisture can dry up during the day. Watering at night can increase the effect of cold and frost, due to which the plant becomes weak.
Marigold needs light but nutritious fertilizer in cold weather. Give a solution of vermi compost, rotten cow dung or mustard cake every 15–20 days. This provides the plant with the necessary nutrition and flowers continue to bloom. Avoid giving too much chemical fertilizer because plants cannot absorb it properly in cold weather. Organic fertilizer not only increases the number of flowers but also increases the disease-resistant capacity of the plant.
Plant energy is limited in winter. If dry flowers and yellow leaves remain on the plant, they will continue to draw nutrients unnecessarily. Therefore, keep plucking withered flowers and bad leaves regularly. This signals the plant to form new buds and produce more flowers. This small habit is very helpful in keeping the marigold blooming for a long time.
By adopting these five easy measures, you can keep your marigold plants healthy and blooming despite the cold wave. A little care and timely protection will keep your garden colorful and fragrant even in winter.
