By Norman Winter, McClatchy-Tribune News Service (MCT)
Taishan marigolds were stars at the Beijing Olympics in 2008, and this spring you will have the opportunity to put them to the test in your garden too. This award-winning marigold series gets its name from Taishan Mountain, one of the five revered mountains in China.
These are large-flowered African marigolds that will be available in gold, orange and yellow. There is also a mix available, which is extremely showy. You’ll find these to be rather compact, reaching 12 inches tall with a spread close to 10 inches. The branches are sturdy and easily supporting the large flowers, and they live up to flower’s name, which means stability in Chinese.
Select a site in full sun for best blooming performance. The soil should be fertile and well drained. Tight, heavy, compact clay will yield less than satisfying results. If you find yourself with this dilemma, you can incorporate three to four inches of organic matter as you work your soil.
If this seems like back-breaking work, you also can plant on raised beds using a prepared landscape planting mix. You’ll notice this to be a common practice around commercial shopping centers and office complexes. The Taishan marigolds should be spaced about 10 inches apart. Be sure and add a good layer of mulch after planting to conserve moisture and deter weed growth.