Calendula
Calendula (Pacific Beauty)
Also known as English marigolds or pot marigolds. Easy to grow this plant attracts good bugs to the garden and repels the bad ones. Plant with tomatoes and asparagus.
How to Sow
Sowing Directly in the Garden:
- Direct sow seeds in average soil in full sun after danger of heavy frost.
- Sow in ordinary or poor garden soil. In Deep South, Gulf and Pacific Coast areas, sow from fall to early spring.
- Sow seeds thinly and cover with ¼ inch of soil.
- Firm soil lightly and keep evenly moist.
- Seedlings will emerge in 10-15 days.
How to Grow
- Thin seedlings to 16 inches apart when seedlings are 1-2 inches tall.
- Keep soil evenly moist but not wet.
- Deadhead the plants regularly to keep them blooming continuously.
- If your calendula plants die out due to hot summer weather, cut them back hard and water. They will start growing again when cooler weather returns.
- Plants can self-sow, so allow some to set seeds.
- Monitor for pests and diseases. Check with your local Cooperative Extension Service for pest controls recommended for your area.
- Remove plants after they are killed by heavy frost in fall to avoid disease issues the following year.
Harvest and Preserving Tips
- Calendula performs best in areas with relatively cool summers, but can grow anywhere.
- Plant calendula in an herb garden or in containers to add a splash of color, or plant them with both annuals and perennials in flower beds and borders.
- Taller varieties make beautiful cut flowers and nice additions to dried arrangements. For fresh arrangements, cut the flowers when they are about half open. To dry, hang them in small bunches upside down in a warm, dry place.