Troubleshooting
French Marigold 'Durango' problems — and how to fix them
French Marigold 'Durango' (Tagetes patula 'Durango') 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 blooms
Dense double flowers trap moisture and rot to grey mould in wet, humid weather. Deadhead promptly, water at the base, and ensure good spacing and airflow.
Slugs and snails on seedlings
Young plants are a favourite of slugs and snails, which can strip them overnight. Protect transplants with barriers or traps until they are established.
Spider mites in hot, dry spells
Hot, dry conditions bring spider mites, causing stippled, bronzed leaves and fine webbing. Rinse foliage and keep plants adequately watered to deter them.
Few flowers, leafy growth
Over-rich soil or too much nitrogen and shade give lush leaves but sparse bloom. Site in full sun and use a balanced or potassium-leaning feed rather than high-nitrogen fertiliser.
Prevent french marigold 'durango' problems before they start
Most french marigold 'durango' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common french marigold problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- French Marigold 'Durango' watering schedule
- French Marigold 'Durango' light requirements
- Best soil mix for french marigold 'durango'
- French Marigold 'Durango' temperature & humidity
- Full french marigold 'durango' care guide
Looking for french marigold 'durango' in general rather than its problems? Read the full french marigold 'durango' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
French Marigold 'Durango' problems — FAQ
Why is my french marigold 'durango' botrytis (grey mould) on blooms?
Dense double flowers trap moisture and rot to grey mould in wet, humid weather. Deadhead promptly, water at the base, and ensure good spacing and airflow.
Why is my french marigold 'durango' slugs and snails on seedlings?
Young plants are a favourite of slugs and snails, which can strip them overnight. Protect transplants with barriers or traps until they are established.
Why is my french marigold 'durango' spider mites in hot, dry spells?
Hot, dry conditions bring spider mites, causing stippled, bronzed leaves and fine webbing. Rinse foliage and keep plants adequately watered to deter them.
Why is my french marigold 'durango' few flowers, leafy growth?
Over-rich soil or too much nitrogen and shade give lush leaves but sparse bloom. Site in full sun and use a balanced or potassium-leaning feed rather than high-nitrogen fertiliser.