Marigold is a bright, fragrant flower known for its golden hues and is widely used in gardens, rituals, and traditional medicine. It holds cultural, ornamental, and medicinal value across many parts of the world.





Life Cycle of Marigold

 	
Germination:

 	
Seeds germinate in 5–7 days after sowing in warm soil.


 	
Vegetative Growth:

 	
Rapid leaf and stem development for about 2–3 weeks.


 	
Budding & Flowering:

 	
Begins flowering in 6–8 weeks after sowing.


 	
Maturity & Seed Formation:

 	
Mature flowers dry and form seeds in 10–12 weeks.




 	
Life Span: Annual in most climates (lives for one growing season).

Time of Harvest

 	
Best Harvest Time:

 	
When the flowers are fully bloomed but still fresh and vibrant, usually in the early morning.


 	
Harvest Season:

 	
Spring to Autumn, depending on the climate (can bloom all year in tropical regions).



Importance in Human Life

 	
Cultural Use:

 	
Widely used in festivals, weddings, and religious rituals.


 	
Gardening:

 	
Acts as a natural pest repellent in vegetable gardens.


 	
Cosmetics & Dye:

 	
Extracts are used in skin care and natural coloring agents.


 	
Medicinal Use:

 	
Used in herbal teas, ointments, and eye care remedies.



Health Benefit Highlights

 	
Soothes Skin Irritations:

 	
Marigold (especially Calendula, a type of marigold) has anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties—used in creams for cuts, burns, and rashes.


 	
Supports Eye Health:

 	
Contains lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that help protect the eyes from UV damage and age-related degeneration.


 	
Boosts Immunity & Fights Infections:

 	
Natural antibacterial and antifungal properties help strengthen the immune system and protect against skin and internal infections.



Marigold is not just a flower for decoration—it's a gift of nature that supports health, healing, and harmony.