How to Grow Lemon Gem
Tagetes tenuifolia
Your complete guide to growing Lemon Gem.
📷 Wikimedia CommonsWhen to Plant Lemon Gem
Planting windows vary by USDA hardiness zone. Look up yours by ZIP code.
| Zone | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | May – June | July – September | — |
| Zone 2 | April – May | June – August | — |
| Zone 3 | April – May | June – August | — |
| Zone 4 | March – April | June – July | — |
| Zone 5 | March – April | May – July | — |
| Zone 6 | March – April | May – July | — |
| Zone 7 | February – March | April – June | — |
| Zone 8 | February – March | April – June | — |
| Zone 9 | January – February | March – May | — |
| Zone 10 | January | February – April | — |
| Zone 11 | January | January – March | — |
| Zone 12 | January | January – March | — |
| Zone 13 | January | January – March | — |
Companion Plants for Lemon Gem
✓ Good companions
Repels aphids, whiteflies, and thrips that commonly attack marigolds
Marigolds repel cucumber beetles and squash bugs
Provides ground cover while marigolds deter aphids and leaf miners
Both attract beneficial insects and serve as trap crops for aphids
Marigolds deter aphids and flea beetles that damage pepper plants
Marigolds repel aphids, nematodes, and may reduce black spot disease
Marigolds repel nematodes and tomato hornworms while improving tomato flavor
Create pollinator habitat together and have similar growing requirements
✗ Keep away from
Marigolds can inhibit bean growth and nitrogen fixation through root secretions
Marigold compounds may stunt brassica growth and development
Compete for similar nutrients and sunflowers may shade out lower-growing marigolds
