Depending upon variety use, the marigold will be ready to harvest in 2 to 2.5 months. French Marigold flowers ready for harvesting in 1.5 months whereas 2 months required for African marigold. Plucked marigold plants when they attain full size. Harvesting must be done either in the morning or in the evening hours. The field must be irrigated before plucking of flowers; it will help to maintain quality for a longer period.
Loose flowers are plucked when attaining full size depending upon the plant variety. Flowers must be harvested in the morning hours. Irrigation before plucking gives better Marigold flower quality. Plucking of Marigold flowers regularly and removal of dried flowers enhance the yield. For Garland stalkless fully opened flowers or loose flowers are picked, white for vase decoration also fully opened flowers with stalk are plucked. Loose Marigold flowers are packed in a bamboo basket, while flowers with stalk are bunched in bundles and transported to the market.
