Calendula marigolds, also known as pot marigolds, are an old cottage garden favourite, often used as a companion plant to help attract pollinating insects. Calendula flowers from June to September from a spring sowing, or from May to July from an autumn sowing. The flowers are edible and the petals make an attractively colourful garnish to salads and other dishes. They are also said to also have healing properties – calendula has been used to treat skin ailments such as rashes, wounds and sores, and has also been used to reduce pain and inflammation. Their petals can be harvested and used fresh or dry in tea, and can also be used to make a balm.
Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a hardy annual flower that can brighten up any garden with its cheery yellow and orange blooms. Though tolerant of cool weather, timing is important when sowing calendula seeds outdoors. Planning properly allows gardeners to enjoy this medicinal flower through autumn and maximize seed harvesting.
An Overview of Calendula
Calendula officinalis is part of the Asteraceae family along with other daisy-like flowers. Sometimes called English marigold or Scottish marigold, calendula should not be confused with French or African marigolds from the Tagetes genus. Unlike French marigolds, the petals of calendula flowers are edible.
Native to the Mediterranean region, calendula thrives in temperate climates worldwide. The long blooming period from late spring to autumn makes it a favorite for herb gardens. Calendula self-seeds readily under the right conditions. Saving seeds annually provides an ongoing supply for no cost.
Both the flowers and leaves have medicinal uses internally and externally. Calendula tea can treat stomach upset and inflammation. Infused oil applied to skin heals wounds, burns, and rashes. The antibacterial and antimicrobial properties help prevent infection. Commercial products such as skin creams and shampoo contain calendula extracts.
Choosing the Best Time to Plant Calendula Seeds Outdoors
Though tolerant of cool conditions, calendula growth stalls below 50°F (10°C). For quick germination and healthy seedlings, the ideal soil temperature range is 60–70°F (15–21°C). Planting too early while frost remains a possibility leads to failure.
Spring planting should occur after all danger of frost has passed. This is typically four to six weeks before the last expected spring frost. Calendula germinates in 5–10 days when soil temperatures reach 60°F (15°C).
Fall planting can occur approximately eight weeks before the first fall frost date This allows enough time for plants to become established before growth slows for winter.
Staggering planting dates every 2–3 weeks extends the harvest. Successive planting also prevents having all plants at the same growth stages when pests or disease strike.
The Best Practices for Outdoor Sowing
Follow these simple steps for robust growth and maximum flowers when sowing calendula seeds directly in the garden bed
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Choose a site with full sun for at least six hours daily. Calendula thrives in zones 3-9.
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Prepare the soil well by mixing in 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of compost or well-rotted manure. Soil pH between 6.0-7.0 is optimal.
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Sow seeds 1/4 inch (6 mm) deep spaced 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) apart in rows, or broadcast seeds across a bed for dense growth.
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Water gently daily until seedlings emerge, then allow the soil surface to partially dry between waterings.
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Thin overcrowded seedlings to 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) apart. Transplant thinnings to fill gaps.
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Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering until frost.
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Collect dried seed heads by hand or place paper bags over spent flower heads then harvest the seeds.
Starting Seeds Indoors for Transplants
While calendula readily self-seeds each year, starting seeds indoors may be preferred to control timing, quantity, and varieties grown. Follow these tips for success:
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Sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected spring frost. Use sterile seed starting mix and containers with drainage holes.
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Barely cover the small seeds and maintain 65–70°F (18–21°C) soil temperature.
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Provide sunlight immediately after germination. Supplement with grow lights 12-16 hours daily.
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Harden off seedlings for 7-10 days before transplanting outdoors after all danger of frost. Take care not to disturb the taproot during planting.
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Space transplants 12-15 inches (30-38 cm) apart in sunny sites with compost-amended soil. Water transplants well.
Ongoing Care for Healthy Plants
Routine care with proper harvesting ensures a thriving calendula patch. Follow these maintenance tips:
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Water plants regularly during dry periods, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) per week. Avoid overhead watering.
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Apply balanced organic fertilizer or compost tea every 3-4 weeks to support flowering.
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Inspect plants frequently and promptly remove diseased foliage or pest-damaged plants.
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Deadhead spent blooms often by pinching stems to prolong flowering into late autumn.
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Harvest flowers when fully open by cutting stems with pruners. Use fresh, air dry, or freeze.
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Allow some blooms to mature and drop seeds for future propagation. Store seeds in an airtight container.
With a long blooming season and pretty floral display, calendula deserves a spot in both flower and herb gardens. Paying attention to ideal planting times, growing conditions, and proper maintenance results in an abundance of blossoms and medicinally valuable flowers. Timely harvesting provides edible petals and seeds for future plantings. A little effort to sow calendula seeds at the right time yields big rewards.
Where to grow calendula[image id=”82201″ size=”landscape_thumbnail” align=”none” title=”Calendula growing in a border display” alt=”Calendula growing in a border display” classes=””] Calendula growing as part of a border display
Calendula works well as a bedding annual at the front of a border display, and in pots. In the greenhouse and vegetable patch, grow calendula among your tomatoes, beans and other crops to attract pollinating insects.
How to plant calendula[image id=”1453″ size=”landscape_thumbnail” align=”none” title=”Planting calendula plants in a pot” alt=”Planting calendula plants in a pot” classes=””] Planting pot-grown calendula plants in a pot
They are best grown from seed and sown where it is to flower. Sow the seed thinly in patches or rows, 1cm deep, and cover lightly. Thin seedlings to 10-15cm apart.
You can also sow seeds in pots or buy them as potted plants to plant out later. These can be used in bedding and container displays.
GROWING CALENDULA FROM SEED: Planting Calendula in Both Spring & Fall // Calendula as a Hardy Annual
FAQ
Does calendula come back every year?
Calendula or Calendula officinalis, is a hardy annual, and member of the Asteraceae or Compositae family, which share a central disc surrounded by …
Does calendula like sun or shade?
Calendula grows well in full sun and partial shade, however, you will see the most blooms when conditions are sunny and temperatures are not too hot.
When should I plant Calendula seeds?
Start calendula seeds indoors in a seed starter mix about six to eight weeks before the last frost date. Or, you can sow them directly into the garden just before the last spring frost date. Plant calendula seeds 1/2-inch deep in the soil. Most plants bloom within two months of seeding.
How do you plant calendulas in the fall?
In warmer climates, you can also plant them in the fall for winter blooms. Prepare the Seeds: Calendula seeds are small and crescent-shaped. They don’t require any special treatment before planting. Sow the Seeds: Scatter the seeds evenly over the prepared soil. If planting in rows, space the seeds about 6-12 inches apart.
How do you plant Calendula seeds?
To plant your calendula seeds, you’ll need to prepare your soil by digging a shallow hole. Fill the hole with compost or a light soil mix and then place the seeds on top. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and then water the area. You don’t need to cover the seeds too deeply, as calendula prefers a light covering.
Can Calendula grow from seed?
Calendula grows easily and readily from seed, but there are a couple of important considerations when sowing. The first is that these cold-tolerant plants will grow weaker and smaller if you sow the seeds during warm weather. If sowing directly outdoors, put them in the ground a couple of weeks before you expect the last frost.
Can you plant Calendula seeds outside?
Direct Sowing Calendula Seeds OutdoorYouou can also sow calendula seeds directly in your garden after the last frost date. Just follow these steps: Choose your spot: Find a location with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
When should Calendula flowers be harvested?
When to Harvest: Harvest Calendula flowers when they are fully open but before they start to fade. This ensures maximum potency for medicinal uses. How to Harvest: Use sharp scissors or garden shears to cut the flowers just above a set of leaves. Regular harvesting encourages more blooms.