How do I grow the seeds inside the marigold ? They never seem to grow when sowed directly in the ground.?

I pull the flower off when it's done and split it open to reveal the seeds. Take a few and plant but nothing ever happens. Do I need to do something to them first?

How do I grow the seeds inside the marigold ? They never seem to grow when sowed directly in the ground.?
They need to dry first. I have been sowing saved Marigold seeds for years, but I reap the dried flower heads in the fall, for planting next spring. I have never had any trouble, and have sown saved seed even 2 or 3 years later. Also, some seeds need to go through a cold spell in order to germinate. Some seed you can let dry, then put in the refrigerator for a few weeks, in order to simulate winter. I don`t think you will have time for the marigolds, though, except maybe getting some fall flowers.
Reply:I bought marigold seeds from the garden canter. The directions on the seed bag said to rinse the seeds well. (the seeds are dried) then to soak for 24 hours. Sounds like your seeds are either not dry, or maybe they need to be soaked, maybe both.
Reply:i suggest waiting until the end of the season and the whole plant has dried out. You may be taking them to soon. Just because the flower head is done, doesn't mean the seeds are completely ready yet.
Reply:lt the flower dty out on the plant,,,then pull the seeds out and put a little bit of dirt over them--about i/8 inch