Corn marigold
Glebionis segetum · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant corn marigold: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Summer to autumn (July to October)
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Not very hardy, annual or biennial
- Origin
- Mediterranean basin and Asia Minor
- Soil type
- Light, well-draining, undemanding
Care
Watering
Water regularly but moderately, keeping the soil slightly moist without creating waterlogging. Reduce watering in winter. Since this plant tolerates relative drought, avoid excess water which promotes disease.
Exposure
Place your harvest chrysanthemum in full sun or partial shade. A sunny exposure promotes abundant flowering and more intense colours. Aim for at least 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Soil
Prefer light, well-draining soil that's not too rich. Universal potting soil mixed with sand or gravel works perfectly. Avoid overly compact soils or those excessively enriched with organic matter.
Pruning and cutting
Remove faded flowers regularly to extend flowering. Pinching young stems (before flowering begins) encourages denser branching and a more compact plant.
Fertiliser
Apply balanced fertiliser every 15 days during active growth (spring-summer). Reduce feeding in autumn. Light fertilisation is enough; excessive richness can limit flowering.
Diseases and pests
Watch for powdery mildew and aphids in warm, humid conditions. Good air circulation and reduced leaf moisture prevent most problems. Remove affected leaves quickly.
Did you know?
The harvest chrysanthemum was once very common in European grain fields, where it was considered a weed. Today, its bright golden-yellow flowers are appreciated by gardeners for their simple beauty and ability to flower for long periods at the end of the season, making it a valuable asset for cottage gardens and wildflower compositions.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- SunflowerHelianthus annuus
- YarrowAchillea millefolium
- Ox-eye daisyLeucanthemum vulgare
- SneezewortAchillea ptarmica
- Canadian goldenrodSolidago canadensis
- WormwoodArtemisia absinthium
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.