Annual Flower

When to Plant Marigolds in Washington

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

The Short Answer

Marigolds grow on both sides of the Cascades — they're more heat-tolerant than most gardeners assume but also produce well in western Washington's moderate conditions.

Washington Frost Dates

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

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
Western Washington (Seattle/Tacoma) 8a, 8b Mar 25 - Apr 15 Oct 25 - Nov 15
Puget Sound 8b, 9a Mar 15 - Apr 5 Nov 1 - Nov 20
Eastern Washington 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a Apr 25 - May 15 Sep 25 - Oct 15
Central Washington 6a, 6b, 7a Apr 20 - May 10 Oct 1 - Oct 20

Marigolds Planting Schedule for Washington

Western Washington (Seattle/Tacoma) (Zones 8a, 8b)

Average last frost: Mar 25 - Apr 15 · Average first frost: Oct 25 - Nov 15

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

Puget Sound (Zones 8b, 9a)

Average last frost: Mar 15 - Apr 5 · Average first frost: Nov 1 - Nov 20

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

Eastern Washington (Zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a)

Average last frost: Apr 25 - May 15 · Average first frost: Sep 25 - Oct 15

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

Central Washington (Zones 6a, 6b, 7a)

Average last frost: Apr 20 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 20

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

Growing Marigolds in Washington

State-Specific Growing Tips

Western WA: transplant from late May. Marigolds grow respectably in the Puget Sound region. Eastern WA: plant from mid-May. Hot, dry conditions produce excellent marigolds.

Recommended Varieties for Washington

French and African marigolds work in both regions. Signet for edible flowers.

Common Challenges in Washington

Slugs in western WA. Minimal issues in eastern WA. One of the easier flowers for both sides of 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 in Washington with proper attention to regional frost dates and local growing conditions. Timing varies across the state — Western Washington (Seattle/Tacoma) gardeners work with a last frost around Mar 25 - Apr 15, while Central Washington sees frost end around Apr 20 - May 10. Choose varieties suited to your region, amend your soil based on its specific needs, and monitor for the pests and diseases most common in your area. 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 Washington Planting Calendar All plants for Washington 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

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