Annual Flower

When to Plant Marigolds in Hawaii

The ultimate companion plant. Marigolds repel pests, attract pollinators, and add cheerful color all season long.

The Short Answer

In Hawaii, plant marigolds based on your regional frost dates. Coastal Hawaii has a last frost around None, while Upcountry/Mountain sees frost end around Rare. Tropical. Year-round growing season at lower elevations. Elevation creates microclimates. Plant warm-season crops...

Hawaii Frost Dates

Your planting dates depend on which part of Hawaii you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
Coastal Hawaii 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b, 13a None None
Upcountry/Mountain 10a, 10b, 11a Rare Rare

Marigolds Planting Schedule for Hawaii

Coastal Hawaii (Zones 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b, 13a)

Average last frost: None · Average first frost: None

Start Seeds Indoors
6 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
1 wks after frost
Direct Sow
1 wks after frost

Upcountry/Mountain (Zones 10a, 10b, 11a)

Average last frost: Rare · Average first frost: Rare

Start Seeds Indoors
6 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
1 wks after frost
Direct Sow
1 wks after frost

Growing Marigolds in Hawaii

Marigolds in Hawaii's Climate

Marigolds can struggle in peak subtropical summer humidity — root rot and fungal diseases are more common than in drier climates. Plant during the cooler months (October through April) for best results. Their nematode-suppressing properties are extremely valuable in Florida's nematode-heavy sandy soils.

Soil Considerations for Hawaii

Volcanic soils — extremely fertile but can be acidic. Excellent drainage on slopes. Varies dramatically by island and elevation. Make sure soil has warmed to at least 60°F before planting marigolds outside.

Hawaii Climate & Growing Season

Tropical. Year-round growing season at lower elevations. Elevation creates microclimates. Plant warm-season crops anytime. Marigolds cannot tolerate any frost, so wait until all frost danger has passed before transplanting outside. Watch local forecasts carefully in spring.

Growing season length varies across Hawaii: Coastal Hawaii (11a, 11b, 12a, 12b, 13a) has a last frost around None, while Upcountry/Mountain (10a, 10b, 11a) sees frost end around Rare. This difference matters for marigolds — transplant timing shifts by several weeks across the state.

Growing Tips

French marigolds are best for pest control in vegetable gardens. Deadhead spent flowers to keep them blooming until frost.

Companion Planting

Plant marigolds alongside these companions for better growth:

Tomatoes Peppers Squash Beans

The Bottom Line

Marigolds can be grown successfully across Hawaii, but your exact planting dates depend on which region you're in. Coastal Hawaii gardeners should plan around a None last frost, while those in Upcountry/Mountain can typically plant later. For exact dates based on your zip code, use our free planting date finder.

Related Guides

Marigolds Growing Guide National planting guide with all states Hawaii Planting Calendar All plants for Hawaii Marigolds in Alabama Alabama planting dates Marigolds in Alaska Alaska planting dates Marigolds in Arizona Arizona planting dates Marigolds in Arkansas Arkansas planting dates
Note: All dates are based on NOAA 30-year Climate Normals and represent historical averages, not predictions for any specific year. Always check your local weather forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops. Learn about our data sources.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026

Ready to Start Planting?

Enter your zip code and pick your plant. We'll tell you exactly when to plant, start seeds, and harvest — based on where you live.

Find Your Planting Dates