Which marigold variety and spacing gives high flower yield for extraction contracts?

For lutein and pigment extraction the companies want high carotenoid African marigold hybrids that are bred for deep coloured, high pigment flowers and heavy flower yield, and they usually specify or supply the exact hybrid as part of the contract, so the first rule is to use the variety they require rather than a garland type. Spacing is set to get a good plant population while leaving room for picking, commonly in rows with enough gap to harvest repeatedly, and the crop is picked multiple times as flowers keep coming. Good irrigation, balanced nutrition and pest control on the buds drive the flower tonnage they pay for. Because the variety, spacing and agronomy for the extraction crop are tied to what the contracting company wants, get the recommended hybrid, spacing and crop schedule from the company and cross check with your KVK, and confirm the buyback terms before planting.