Research aimed at identifying the marigold cultivars with the best production and quality results, as well as the easiest cultivars to harvest with a view to medicinal valorisation. In order to reach these objectives, we made up a collection of 8 marigold cultivars of 2 species – Tagetes patula and Tagetes erecta – and we studied their morphological, productive, and qualitative features. We made observations and measurements concerning the size and colour of the inflorescences, production, and carotenoid content. We also assessed the necessary labour force to harvest the inflorescences taking into account that it must be done manually. Marigold inflorescences are important both in phyto-therapy and in obtaining some extracts for the ecological protection of agricultural crops. Among the cultivars we studied, to note the Focul cultivar developed at the SCDL Bacău, with intensely orange coloured inflorescences rich in carotenoids.

marigold (Tagetes sp.); production of inflorescences; carotenoid content

Presentation: oral