Name: Tithonia (Tithonia diversifolia)
SKU: 15350
Price: 30.00 NAD
Availability: InStock

Tithonia is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family (Asteraceae). It includes several species of herbaceous plants and shrubs that are native to Mexico and Central America. One of the most well-known species in this genus is Tithonia diversifolia, commonly called the Mexican sunflower or tree marigold.

Here are some key characteristics and information about Tithonia:

Appearance: Tithonia plants are known for their bright orange to red-orange, daisy-like flowers, which resemble those of true marigolds. The flowers are typically large and showy, making them popular in garden settings. The leaves are usually rough and serrated.
Growth Habit: Tithonia diversifolia is a tall and fast-growing plant that can reach heights of 6 to 12 feet (1.8 to 3.7 meters) or even more. It has a bushy, shrub-like growth habit with multiple stems.
Cultivation: Tithonia plants are often cultivated as ornamental flowers in gardens and as pollinator attractors due to their bright colors. They are also grown in some regions as green manure or cover crops, as they can improve soil fertility.
Ecological Importance: Tithonia species, particularly Tithonia diversifolia, are valuable for their ability to attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees. They can also serve as a food source for certain wildlife species.

Best Planting Time	The best time to plant Tithonia, also known as Mexican sunflower or tree marigold, depends on your local climate and growing conditions. In general, Tithonia is a warm-season annual that thrives in hot weather. Here are some guidelines for planting Tithonia: Frost-Free Period: Wait until the last expected frost date has passed in your region before planting Tithonia. Planting too early, while there is still a risk of frost, can damage or kill the young seedlings. Spring Planting: In regions with a cold winter and a short growing season, you can start Tithonia seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant the seedlings outdoors once the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. This is typically in late spring or early summer. Direct Sowing: In areas with a longer growing season and mild winters, you can sow Tithonia seeds directly into the garden soil in late spring or early summer, once the soil temperature has reached at least 60°F (15°C). Ensure that there is no more risk of frost. Warm Soil and Full Sun: Tithonia plants thrive in warm soil and full sun, so make sure the soil has had a chance to warm up before planting. Choose a sunny location in your garden with well-draining soil.
Marturity	Tithonia (Mexican sunflower or tree marigold) is typically grown for its attractive flowers and is not commonly harvested for its leaves as a primary crop. However, if you are interested in using Tithonia leaves as a green manure, it's important to consider the growth stage of the plant and the specific part of the plant you intend to harvest. Here are some considerations for harvesting Tithonia leaves: Growth Stage: Tithonia plants need time to establish themselves and grow before you consider harvesting leaves. It's essential to allow the plant to reach a sufficient size and maturity, typically at least 2 months after planting. Leaf Selection: When harvesting Tithonia leaves, focus on selecting healthy and mature leaves. Avoid harvesting too many leaves from a single plant, as this can stress the plant and impact its overall health and ability to produce flowers. Pruning and Maintenance: You can prune Tithonia plants by selectively removing some leaves or branches to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Pruning can also be done to remove any damaged or diseased leaves for the overall health of the plant. Frequency: The frequency of leaf harvesting will depend on your specific use. If you're using Tithonia leaves for fertilizing purposes, consider harvesting leaves as needed while leaving enough foliage on the plant to support its growth. Caution: Keep in mind that Tithonia leaves are not typically a culinary crop, and their safety for consumption may not be well-documented. If you intend to use them for any medicinal or dietary purposes, it's essential to research their safety and consult with a knowledgeable source or healthcare professional. In summary, while Tithonia is primarily grown for its beautiful flowers and other potential benefits, you can harvest its leaves once the plant has matured and established itself. Be mindful not to overharvest and stress the plant, and exercise caution when using the leaves for any specific purposes beyond ornamental or landscaping uses.
Size Of The Hole	The size of a hole for Tithonia when planting should be 40cm (length) by 40cm (width) by 40cm (height). Prepare the soil by adding organic matter and ensuring good drainage before planting.
Spacing	The ideal planting space for Tithonia is 1m between rows and 1m within the row.
Irrigation	Water at least 3 times a week off the rainy season using the microjet irrigation
Fertilization	You may add organic matter in the form of manure but even without any fertilization Tithonia still grows well as long as it is being watered.
Common Diseases	Tithonai is a very resistant plant when it comes to diseases as it also helps in repellings pests.
Disease and Pest control	To manage and prevent these diseases in Tithonia, it's essential to follow good agricultural practices, including: Selecting disease-resistant varieties when available. Practicing crop rotation to reduce disease buildup in the soil. Providing proper spacing for good air circulation. Monitoring plants regularly for signs of disease. Using disease-free seeds and planting material. Managing insect pests that can transmit viral diseases. Maintaining overall plant health through proper nutrition and irrigation.

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