Troubleshooting
African Marigold 'Crackerjack' problems — and how to fix them
African Marigold 'Crackerjack' (Tagetes erecta 'Crackerjack') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Botrytis (grey mould) on heavy blooms
The big double pompons hold water and rot to grey mould in wet, humid weather. Deadhead faded flowers, water at the base, and give plenty of spacing.
Top-heavy plants flopping
Tall stems carrying large flowers can lodge in wind or rain. Stake taller plants and pinch young growth once to encourage sturdier branching.
Slugs, snails and earwigs
These pests chew seedlings and ragged holes in petals. Protect young transplants and use traps; tidy debris where pests shelter near the plants.
Spider mites in heat
Hot, dry conditions encourage spider mites, seen as bronzed, stippled leaves and webbing. Rinse foliage and avoid drought stress to keep them down.
Prevent african marigold 'crackerjack' problems before they start
Most african marigold 'crackerjack' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common african marigold problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- African Marigold 'Crackerjack' watering schedule
- African Marigold 'Crackerjack' light requirements
- Best soil mix for african marigold 'crackerjack'
- African Marigold 'Crackerjack' temperature & humidity
- Full african marigold 'crackerjack' care guide
Looking for african marigold 'crackerjack' in general rather than its problems? Read the full african marigold 'crackerjack' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
African Marigold 'Crackerjack' problems — FAQ
Why is my african marigold 'crackerjack' botrytis (grey mould) on heavy blooms?
The big double pompons hold water and rot to grey mould in wet, humid weather. Deadhead faded flowers, water at the base, and give plenty of spacing.
Why is my african marigold 'crackerjack' top-heavy plants flopping?
Tall stems carrying large flowers can lodge in wind or rain. Stake taller plants and pinch young growth once to encourage sturdier branching.
Why is my african marigold 'crackerjack' slugs, snails and earwigs?
These pests chew seedlings and ragged holes in petals. Protect young transplants and use traps; tidy debris where pests shelter near the plants.
Why is my african marigold 'crackerjack' spider mites in heat?
Hot, dry conditions encourage spider mites, seen as bronzed, stippled leaves and webbing. Rinse foliage and avoid drought stress to keep them down.