Calendula
Often called Pot Marigolds, Calendula is a hardy annual with cheerful orange and yellow daisy-like flowers. Known for its medicinal properties and edible petals, it's a great choice for cottage gardens and companion planting.
Calendula seeds
£1.49 in the shop
Calendar
Sow
March – May, directly outdoors once soil has warmed. Can be sown in autumn (September-October) for earlier spring flowers in mild areas.
Plant out
Direct sow or transplant indoor-sown seedlings after hardening off, spacing as required.
Harvest
June – October, pick flowers as they open. Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming.
Conditions
Sun
Full sun to partial shade, at least 4-6 hours of sun for best flowering.
Water
Water regularly when establishing. Once mature, tolerates some dryness but performs best with consistent moisture. Avoid waterlogging.
Soil
Average, well-draining soil. Prefers a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0). Tolerant of poor soils.
Spacing
20-30cm between plants for good air circulation.
Containers
Excellent in pots, window boxes, and mixed containers. Use a pot at least 20cm in diameter.
Indoors
Can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost for an earlier display, but direct sowing is often preferred.
Care and harvest
Feeding
Generally not necessary. If growing in containers or poor soil, a balanced liquid feed once a month at half strength.
Pruning
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms and prevent excessive self-seeding (though volunteers are often welcome!).
Harvesting
Snip flower heads just below the calyx when fully open. Pick petals for culinary or medicinal use.
Storage
Flowers are best used fresh. Petals can be dried for tea or infused oils. Store dried petals in an airtight container.
Good companions: Tomatoes, Asparagus, Carrots, Peas