In regions with moderate summers, some calendula varieties will bloom againsometimes more abundantlyin fall.
If you like, you could plant extra seeds.
Just be sure to thin out the less productive sprouts as they emerge.
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Cover the furrow with a thin layer of soil or compost and water thoroughly.
Plant seedlings or purchased transplants in the ground after the danger of frost has passed.
Water your plant thoroughly.
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If you are planting more than one calendula plant, place each seedling approximately 8 to 16 inches apart.
Light
To maximize blooming, plant your calendulas in full sun.
Dense, clay, and wet soils are likely to cause root rot.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Calendulas are moderately drought-tolerant but need consistently moist (not wet) soil to thriveespecially when they are young.
To produce the most blooms, water your newly planted calendulas frequently until they are established.
High humidity increases the chance of root rot or fungal disease in calendulas.
Credit: Julie Maris Semarco
Feed your plants sparingly, though, as overfertilization causes calendulas to bloom less and grow bushier.
Choose a container that is at least 6 inches in diameter with adequate drainage holes.
Cover the seeds, water thoroughly, and keep the soil evenly moist as the seeds germinate.
Credit: Denny Schrock
You may also need to fertilize your container-grown calendula to encourage lush growth and blooms.
Apply a diluted, balanced fertilizer regularly throughout the growing season.
Slugs and snails are also a common issue for calendulasespecially when the plants are young.
Calendula is also susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
Place a seed in each hole and cover the seeds with more seed starter mix.
Keep the soil consistently moist, but not wet, and thin out the weaker seedlings as they emerge.
you might transplant your seedlings to the ground or an outdoor container after the danger of frost has passed.
It has a mounding growth habit that makes it great for edging walkways or garden beds.
They grow well in zones 3-10 and are one of the most heat-tolerant varieties of calendula available.
It is a hardy perennial in zones 8-10 but can be grown as a short-lived annual in other regions.
If you want ornamental companions for calendula, try some of these beauties.
They are hardy in zones 7-10 but are often grown as annuals in the north.
Stock plants grow best in full sun or part shade and may benefit from afternoon shade.
In cooler climates, candytuft will behave like a hardy perennial, dying back to the ground each winter.
Marigold
Marigolds (Tagetesspp.)
are relatives of calendula.
In fact, the two are often confused.
Like calendula,AfricanandFrench marigoldsbelong to the familyAsteraceaeand grow in zones 2-11.
They also prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to acidic pH (6.0-7.5).
Frequently Asked Questions
The leaves and petals of calendula officinalis are edible.
Marigold plants, on the other hand, have smooth stems and thin (non-sticky), toothed leaves.
Calendula is also classified as non-toxic, while some varieties of marigolds are considered toxic to humans and pets.
Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States.
North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox.
