Growing calendula (Calendula officinalis) from seed provides a spectacular display of light yellow to deep orange blooms from early summer until frost. Sun-loving plants are usually low and compact with attractive double blossoms that can be 2-1/2 to 4 inches across. Start in flats for early season flowering or sow directly in the garden. Gorgeous in patio pots or mixed borders.
Calendula’s edible flowers and spicy leaves add zest to summer salads and will draw plenty of ooohs and ahhs when presented in a meal. Used in salves, lotions and balms, the daisy-like flower is more than a pretty face, where it’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties are valued for soothing and restoring the skin.
You’ll have this annual’s beauty all season, since it is cold hardy and stands an eye-catching 18-24 inches tall.
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Calendula Seeds
Also known as “pot marigold,” calendula’s orange and yellow blossoms will last all summer.
View allTransform your home into a private oasis with beautiful heirloom flowers. Planting instructions are included with each seed packet and shipping is FREE!
Quick Guide: Planting, Growing & Caring for Calendula
- Have bright, sassy orange and yellow flowers 2.5-4 in. across on plants 18-24 in. tall
- Easy to grow indoors (start 6-8 weeks before last frost) or sow outdoors after last frost
- Offer full sun and compost-rich soil or potting soil
- Bloom all season long; deadhead and fertilize to increase blooms
- Like marigolds, will help repel insects, so are great for companion planting
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
Maturity: 45-60 days from seed to flower
Height: 18 to 24 inches
Spacing: 24 to 36 inches apart in all directions
Site Preparation
Plants prefer full sun but will tolerate light shade in warmer areas. Calendula is best planted in prepared garden beds or large containers filled with organic potting soil. Prior to planting in beds, work a shovelful or two of well-aged manure or compost into the ground to improve soil conditions (watch 6 Tips for Growing Great Flowers – video).
How to Plant
A cool-season plant, calendula can be started indoors under grow lights 6-8 weeks before the last frost or directly seeded outdoors after the last frost (see Starting Annual Flowers Indoors). Seeds germinate in 5-15 days.
Water well throughout the gardening season and apply a liquid bloom fertilizer several times during the gardening season to promote big, beautiful blossoms. Pinch off spent flowers on a regular basis to extend the blooming period. Mulch to prevent weeds, conserve moisture and help keep roots cool.
Insect & Disease Problems
Insects and disease are not typically a problem for calendula. In fact, the flower may be helpful for deterring many insect pests, making it a good companion plant for vegetable gardens. Try planting pot marigolds around chard, carrots and tomatoes for added insect protection.
Seed Saving Instructions
Calendula will produce lots of seed in a similar fashion to a zinnia or marigold. When the blooms dry out, cut them off and hang upside down in bundles. The seeds are contained in the heads, and once dry and crisp, they can be lightly hand-crushed and winnowed from the seed chaff.
Recommended Products
Chicken Manure
Sup'r Green provides over 5 times more plant food value than steer manure.
$14.95Read more
Organic Potting Soil
Made for all plants including houseplants, patio pots and hanging baskets.
$10.95Read more
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9 Responses to “Calendula”
I have been wanting to get these little beauties for a while. Thankyou
Was on vacation for a week. My calendulas GREW to almost 3 feet tall!!! Can I just cut them way back? Will this kill them. It says to “pinch” them back.
definitely dead head them and pinch them back
My calendula is producing two different flowers one is a big daisy like yellow & the other is a frizzy red-orange (both from the same plant)!) Is there a preference between the two?
What ppm did you use?
I’m in Zone 9 and have mild winters. Would the seeds grow into plants if I sow in the fall directly into the garden?
I can not remember where I first obtained seeds for calendula but they certainly do well in UK summer – still flowering October I have the yellow and more recently the bright orange which have grown better, however I do not remember buying different seeds. I will have millions of seeds to lpant in April. They have thived on pelletized chicken poo !
I have grown these for years to use on wounds for rapid healing and no scars! Also, use petals in soups, stir fries, salads, quiches. Leaves in salads-great for the eyesight.
I grow calendula to dry and soak in coconut oil. It is a wonderful cream for mature skin.