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Calendula

By: Eric Vinje Published: 7 Dec, 12 Updated: 8 May, 18

Glorious and edible, this easy-to-grow annual with orange and yellow blossoms lasts all summer.

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.

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Transform 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.