Marigold flowers will be ready for harvest in about 2.5 months time from the date of transplanting. The plant continues to bear flowers for another 2-2.5 months from the date of first harvest. The flowers are harvested when they have attained full size. Harvest the flowers in the evening along with a portion of stalk. Field should be irrigated before plucking so that flowers keep well for longer period after harvest. Regular picking improves the yield. Fresh flowers are packed in bamboo baskets or gunny bags for transporting to the local markets.
Yield of French marigold will be 8-12 t/ha and that of African marigold 11-18 t/ha.