Calendula Seeds
Calendula Officinalis
Pot Marigold
Calendula is a hardy annual plant, with bright coloured flowers, similar in shape to daisies. It is easy to sow, fast growing and has many culinary uses. The plants will flower from late autumn to spring in mild winters, and from spring to late summer in cooler climates.
Flowers are long-lasting when harvested as a cut flower. This is an easy to grow variety which makes a lovely bright addition to your garden and plate.
Average height: 30cm
Aspect: Full sun or tolerates semi-shade
Soil type: Well drained but moist, light soils and relatively poor soils.
Sowing period: Indoors March/April or August/September - outdoors April/May or August/September in mild locations
First signs of blossom: 6 to 8 weeks
Average flowering period: 4 months
Contents: Approximately 50 seeds
Seeds can be sown indoors in trays or directly into the ground in April-May, or in mild locations in August - September. Water regularly but do not allow to become waterlogged.
Calendula is attractive to bees and bees and can attract hoverflies to the garden, which are natural predators to aphids. Plant adjacent to any vegetables that are prone to aphids.
Harvesting
Harvest the flowers as soon as they have opened, until they look past their best. A delightful addition to salads and for decorating cakes or to enjoy as cut flowers.
Seeds can be collected when they become dry at the end of the season for sowing in the spring or allowed to fall to the ground to re-seed by themselves.