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Growing Marigold Flower:MARIGOLD GROWING TIPS:A one or two inch layer of any organic material spread over the bare soil between marigold plants will discourage weeds and help keep soil moist. This mulch is most helpful when plants are young before their foliage grows bushy and shades the soil. Water marigold plants when they are first planted and during period of high heat and drought.While it is not essential,snipping off the dead blossoms of American type marigolds improves their appearance and stimulates new blooming. Also, as sturdy as they are, American types sometimes need staking to withstand strong winds and heavy rains, or disturbance from foot traffic. Choose unobtrusive small stakes, about 2 feet long and insert them in the soil next to the stem of each plant deeply enough so that they are a bit shorter than the full height of the mature marigold plants. Loop soft fabric or plastic ties around the stake, then the stem and tie to the stake.Planting:Marigolds need lots of sunshine.Though they grow in almost any soil, marigolds thrive in moderately fertile, well-drained soil.Sow them directly into the garden once the soil is warm, or start seeds indoors about a month to 6 weeks before the last spring-frost date.The seeds germinate easily, but watch out for damping off if you start them inside.Separate seedlings when they are about 2 inches tall. Plant them in flats of loose soil, or transplant them into the garden.Space tall marigolds 2 to 3 feet apart; lower-growing ones about a foot apart.If planting in containers, use a soil-based potting mix.