Gift of Seeds - Marigold

Marigolds are personally one of my favourite little flowering plants to grow in my garden, they bring with them an energy of summer, their bright hues of fiery yellow, orange and red have earned them the nickname of "herb of the sun". 

Marigolds often symbolize positive energy and emotions. In Victorian meanings they often are associated with despair and grief, this may have been due to their connection with the Mexican cultural linking it to the remembrance of the dead during Dia de Muertos. These two sides of being positive and full of joy and also a flower of mourning shows the duality of this gorgeous flower. 

Marigolds have amazing medicinal properties including being antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and being full of antioxidants. Marigolds have been used as an external topical solution to sooth burns and treat rashes and wounds. While most people can tolerate the use of marigolds some with sensitive skin should avoid using it. 

Sow in spring and summer in a sunny position, approximately 6mm deep. These flowers self-seed beautifully without becoming weedy.