Calendula plant is native to Europe and Asia but can now be found throughout the world. Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is a plant known as a ‘pot marigold’. It is not the same as ornamental marigolds of the Tagetes genus grown in vegetable gardens.
Essentials
Soil composition and ph levels for Calendula plants
Calendula plants require the following basic soil types:
– Soil type: Well-drained, sandy loam
– Soil pH: above 5.50
– Exposure: Full sun
– Water needs: Regular water
Calendula is a hardy annual that prefers full sun and well-drained, sandy loam soil. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil pH levels but does best in slightly acidic to neutral conditions. Calendula requires regular watering, especially during periods of hot, dry weather.
Overly wet conditions can lead to root rot and fungal diseases. Plants will benefit from occasional fertilization with a balanced product. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage continued blooming throughout the season. Calendula is an easy-to-grow plant that makes an excellent addition to flower beds, borders, and containers.
Watering Calendula plants
Watering Calendula plants correctly is important to their health and growth. Water them early in the morning or late in the afternoon so the water has time to evaporate before nightfall. Water at the base of the plant, not on the leaves, to prevent leaf diseases. Water deeply but less frequently to encourage deep roots.
Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Feed calendulas monthly with a watering can that has a very fine rose attached. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer diluted by half. Water afterwards to help dissolve any fertilizer that lands on the leaves, which can burn them.
Are Calendulas flowering plants?
The answer is yes. Calendula plants produce flowers that are typically yellow or orange in color. The flowers have a diameter of about 2-3 centimetres and have 5 petals. The flowering season for Calendula plants is from June to September.
Do Calendula plants produce fruits?
No, Calendula plants do not produce fruits. Calendula plants are annuals that flower in the spring and summer. The plant’s leaves and flowers are edible and have a slightly bitter taste. Calendula leaves can be added to salads, while the flowers can be used as a garnish. The plant is also used for medicinal purposes and is said to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.
Propagation of Calendula plants
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is a plant in the daisy family that is native to southern Europe. The Calendula plant is easy to grow and Propagation can be done by seed, division, or cuttings.
Propagation by seeds: Sow Calendula seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Sow the seeds thinly and press them into the soil but do not cover them with soil. Keep the soil moist and warm until the seeds germinate. Transplant the seedlings outdoors after the last frost.
Propagation by division: Divide Calendula plants in spring or fall. Dig up the plants and carefully divide them into sections with a sharp knife. Replant the divisions immediately and water adequately.
Propagation by cuttings: Take 4-6 inch stem cuttings from Calendula plants in late spring or early summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cuttings in the rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-drained potting mix and keep them moist. The cuttings should root within 4-6 weeks.
Pests and diseases in Calendula plants
Some of the most common pests include aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and flowers, and can also transmit diseases. To control pests and diseases, it is important to regularly check your plants for signs of infestation and to take immediate action if you see any evidence of pests or diseases.
Common treatments include insecticidal soap, neem oil, and Horticultural oil. If you have a serious infestation, you may need to use pesticides. However, before using any pesticides, it is important to read the label carefully and follow the instructions to avoid harming your plants. Pests and diseases can be a nuisance, but with proper care and treatment, they can be controlled.
Irritation to pets from Calendula plants
Irritation to pets from Calendula plants may include:
– contact dermatitis
– allergic response
– gastrointestinal upset
– respiratory distress
If your pets come into contact with the Calendula plant, watch for signs of irritation. If you notice any of the above symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Varieties of Calendula plants
Varieties of Calendula plant include: the English marigold (Calendula officinalis), the pot marigold (Calendula arvensis), the desert marigold (Calendula refracta), and the nippon marigold (Calendula nipponica).
All varieties of Calendula plants are annuals, meaning they live for one growing season and then die. They are also all members of the Asteraceae family, which is a large family of flowering plants that includes many well-known species such as daisies, sunflowers, and chrysanthemums.
Calendulas are native to Europe and Asia, but they have been introduced to many other parts of the world and can now be found growing on all continents except Antarctica.
Growing Calendula plants in containers and pots
Growing Calendula in containers and pots is an easy and rewarding experience. These plants are known for their cheerful yellow and orange flowers which bloom from spring to fall. Calendula plants are also quite drought tolerant, making them ideal for busy gardeners or those who often forget to water their plants.
When growing Calendula in containers, it is important to choose a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and has drainage holes. Be sure to use a well-draining potting mix, and water the plant whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. With a little care, your Calendula will thrive and provide you with months of beautiful blooms.
Caring for Calendula plants
Calendula is a beautiful and versatile plant that can add color and interest to any garden. Here are a few tips for caring for calendula:
-Calendula prefers full sun but will tolerate partial shade.
-Plant calendula in well-drained soil.
–Water calendula regularly, especially during dry periods.
–Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowering.
-Calendula is generally a pest-free plant, but keep an eye out for slugs and snails, which can damage the leaves.
With a little care, calendula will thrive in your garden and provide months of color and enjoyment.
Companion plants for the Calendulas
As any gardener knows, the soil is essential for growing healthy plants. Not only does it provide nutrients and support for roots, but it also helps to regulate moisture levels and prevent weed growth. However, soil can also be quickly eroded by wind and water, damaging plant life and making it difficult for new seedlings to take root.
One way to help prevent soil erosion is to maintain a healthy lawn by adopting companion planting methods. Grassroots help to hold the soil in place, and the dense network of blades helps to deflect wind and water. In addition, lawns help to slow down the flow of rainwater, giving the ground a chance to absorb the water before it runs off. As a result, a well-tended lawn can play an essential role in preventing soil erosion.
Companion plants for Calendula:
– Borage
– Chamomile
– Dill
– Marigold
– Nasturtium
– Parsley
– Rosemary
– Sage
– Thyme
Planting and spacing for Calendula plants
Planting and spacing for Calendula plants is important to ensure proper air circulation and sunlight exposure for the plant. Plant calendula in an area of your garden that receives full sun to partial shade. The plants should be spaced about 12 to 18 inches apart, with 36 to 48 inches between rows. When planting calendula, dig a hole that is twice the width of the plant’s root ball and just as deep.
Amend the soil with compost or organic matter before planting. Water the plant thoroughly after planting. Mulch around the plant to help retain moisture and control weeds. Fertilize calendula monthly with a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer at half the recommended rate on the label.
Best time for growing Calendula plants
The best planting time for Calendula plants is in the spring after the last frost has passed. Plants can also be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. To plant, sow seeds directly in the garden or start them indoors in peat pots. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are 4-6 inches tall and space them 12 inches apart.
Calendula plants prefer full sun but will also tolerate partial shade. They require well-drained, sandy soil and should be fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Calendula plants are annuals and will self-seed readily if allowed to do so.
Benefits of Calendula plants
Calendula is a plant that has a number of benefits. The plant is native to Europe and has been used for centuries in herbal medicine. Calendula can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
Skin inflammation: Calendula is effective in treating skin inflammation and can be used to treat eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
Wounds: The plant extract can speed up the healing process of wounds and burns.
Ear infections: Calendula oil is effective in treating ear infections.
Digestive issues: Calendula can be used to treat an upset stomach, diarrhea, and constipation.
Calendula is generally safe to use and has few side effects. Some people may experience an allergic reaction to the plant, such as itching or rash. If you experience any adverse effects, stop using calendula and consult your healthcare provider.
How long do Calendula plants take to grow?
Sow calendula seeds about ¼ inch deep in a seed-starting tray or outdoors in a ‘prepared bed of soil‘ after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Calendula seeds will germinate in 7 to 10 days at 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Once calendula seedlings are 4 inches tall, transplant them 12 to 18 inches apart in a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Water calendula plants regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Fertilize calendulas monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Pinch back calendula plants when they are 6 to 8 inches tall to encourage bushier growth.
Calendulas will bloom continuously from late spring until the first frost in fall. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooming.
How to grow Calendula indoors?
Calendula is a cheerful annual flower that blooms continuously from summer to fall. Also known as “pot marigolds,” calendulas are easy to grow and make wonderful cut flowers. Here are a few tips for growing calendula indoors:
Choose a sunny spot. Calendulas need at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Pick a well-draining pot. Calendulas will not tolerate sitting in wet soil, so make sure to choose a pot with drainage holes.
Water regularly. Keep the soil evenly moist, but be careful not to overwater.
Fertilize monthly. Use a balanced fertilizer or compost tea to give your plants an extra boost of nutrients.
With a little care, calendulas will thrive indoors and bring color and life to your home all season long!
Can you grow Calendula from seeds?
Yes, you can grow Calendula from seeds. The best time to plant Calendula seeds is in the spring, after the last frost. To get the best results, start the seeds indoors about six weeks before the last frost. Plant the seeds in well-drained soil and water regularly.
When the seedlings are big enough to handle, thin them out so that they are about 8 inches apart. Transplant the seedlings outdoors after the last frost. water them regularly and fertilize them monthly. Deadhead the flowers to encourage more blooming. Harvest the flowers when they are fully open and dry them for use in crafts or potpourri.
| Calendula | |
| Water | The plant needs plenty of water; regular watering and mulching and avoid overwatering; 1 to 1 1/2 inches per week in mid-summer. |
| Soil ph | 5.50 |
| Sunlight hours | Full sun or partial shade, avoid hot summer heat; prefers cooler temp of spring and early fall. |
| Pests and Diseases | Blister beatles, tarnished plant bugs, spider mites, thistle butterfly caterpillers, slugs, flea beetles, etc. |
| Temperature | Prefers cooler tem of <85 deg F; survives temp down to 25 deg F. |
| Soil composition | Well-drained, moderately nutrient soil; survives wide range of soil; once established, does not need fertilizing or feeding. |
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