Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigold
Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris 'Florapleno') is a low-maintenance wetland perennial native to Northern Europe, Asia, and North America that features buttery-orange or yellow flowers and deeply cut, waxy green leaves. Growing only 8-10 inches tall and wide, it's a good ground cover choice for low-lying, wet areas in your garden. In spring, it's a bright, eye-catching presence with bold-colored, double-petaled flowers that attract butterflies, honeybees, and other pollinators. It enjoys any kind of well-drained soil, provided there is plenty of moisture in the form of flooded wetlands, shallow ponds, or boggy areas. It's an ideal choice for brightening up a live pond or bog garden.
When it comes to watering, this perennial is flexible. As a wetland species, Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigold prefers wet conditions. If your soil isn't naturally moist, make sure to water it during dry spells. As established plants, they rarely need additional watering after they become established. However, when soil moisture is sparse, especially during the heat of summer, it is best to provide extra water.
Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigold prefers full sun exposure but will still flourish in moderate shade. Its spring blooms will be brightest in full sun, though, so try to position the plant in a spot that boasts plenty of afternoon sunshine. A sheltered, shady spot would also be a great option for this perennial.
Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigolds are hardy in Zones 3-12, meaning they can tolerate hot and cold temperatures, from -30 to 110°F (-34.4 to 43°C). But, for optimal growth, they prefer temperatures between 55 and 80°F (12.8 and 26.7°C).
Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigolds love humidity and thrive in wet conditions. As with watering, if the humidity levels aren't naturally high in your garden, misting the plant every few days will help boost the levels around it.
Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigolds prefer soils that are consistently moist and slightly acidic. A rich, well-draining, loamy soil with plenty of organic matter will ensure the best results. Adding mulch around the base of the plant will also help to hold in the moisture and keep the plant healthy.
Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigolds will benefit from a light feeding of an all-purpose or slow-release fertilizer. Fertilize plants in spring and summer with a balanced liquid or granular fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s directions. As with any fertilizer, if too much is used, it can burn the plant’s tender roots, so moderation is key.
Common pests affecting Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigolds are aphids, mites, leafminers, and slugs and snails. The best way to get rid of pests is by physically removing them and spraying the plant with an organic insecticide or neem oil. If the infestation is severe, you can use a soapy water mixture to spray the leaves and stalks. It's important to note that soapy water mixtures should be sprayed into the crown of the plant and not onto the leaves, as this can cause damage.
As established plants, Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigolds do not need to be repotted annually. They only need to be repotted if the plant has become rootbound or the soil has degraded. The best time to repot is in early spring before the plant begins actively growing for the season.
Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigolds benefit from regular pruning, which encourages more flowers and a bushier plant. Pruning encourages the plant to produce more side-shoots with flowers. To prune the plant, simply remove old and dead flowers and shoots and shear off any overgrown stems that detract from the appearance of the plant.
Mulching is beneficial for every gardening project, and Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigolds are no different. A layer of natural mulch applied to the surface of the soil will retain moisture, protect the plant’s roots from temperature fluctuations, and discourage weed growth.
Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigolds can be easily propagated by dividing the plant's root crown. The best time for propagating this species is spring or fall. Start by lifting the plant from the soil, and then, using a sharp knife, slice apart the rootball. Separate the crowns and plant them in fresh soil in areas that get plenty of direct sunlight.
Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigolds aren't picky about the support they require. Small twigs, rusty garden wire, or chicken wire will all work to keep the plant upright.
Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigolds do not require a rest period for optimal growth. Instead, they benefit from being actively grown throughout the year, with flowering occurring between mid spring and summer.
No, Dwarf Yellow Marsh Marigolds are not toxic to pets.
Dwarf Umbrella Tree
The Dwarf Umbrella Tree, Schefflera arboricola, is an evergreen tropical tree native to Taiwan and parts of Southern China. It's easy-care nature and...
Dwarf Papyrus
Dwarf Papyrus (Cyperus isocladus) is a small evergreen perennial that is ideal for growing in moist, warm climates. It naturally grows in wet areas an...
Dwarf Schefflera
Dwarf Schefflera (Schefflera arboricola) is a tropical evergreen shrub with glossy green leaves and distinctive orange petioles. The leaf shape is dee...
Desert Marigold
Desert Marigold (Baileya multiradiata) is an annual or short-lived perennial native to the arid west of the United States. It is also known as woolly...
Dwarf Lilyturf
Dwarf Lily Turf (Ophiopogon japonicus) is a clump-forming perennial from southern Japan, Taiwan, and China which is often used in ornamental gardening...
Dwarf Aloe
Dwarf Aloe (Aloe aristata) is a succulent plant that features leaves edged with prickles, densely packed leaves, and many curved arched leaves. It blo...