How To Plant Calendula

The calendula is a flowering plant that even the most inexperienced of gardeners can easily grow. Calendula, also known as the pot marigold, will develop flowers that are bright yellow or orange. The plant is native to parts of Europe that surround the Mediterranean Sea. Calendula has long been used for medicinal purposes, having properties that allow it to be employed to treat cuts, infections and scrapes, among other skin conditions.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Calendula seeds Hoe Watering can

1. Plant calendula when all threat of a frost has passed. The seeds of the calendula require temperatures of 59 to 68 degrees F to germinate. Calendula is a fast grower, so there is no need to rush it into the garden before the middle of May. Plant the seeds 2 inches apart in rows.

2. Plant calendula seeds in partial shade or in an area that will receive a full dose of sunshine every day. These plants will flourish in nearly every light condition with the sole exception being deep shade.

3. Plant the seeds of the calendula 1/4 inch deep in the soil. This plant will do well in nearly every type of soil. Cover the seeds very lightly but make certain that they are covered with some soil, as they require darkness to begin sprouting. Pat the dirt down gently after covering the seeds.

4. Water the calendula regularly. These seeds are not tolerant of dry conditions. Once the plant has made its way up through the soil, keep watering it but be careful not to overdo things. Water the plant so that the ground around it is moist but not saturated.

5. Thin out the plants so that they are about 9 inches to a foot apart. Calendulas will grow to be as tall as 2 feet, so the plant will need space to thrive once it has germinated. The calendula will bloom in as little as 40 to 50 days once the seeds have germinated.

Tips & Warnings

• Calendulas are the ideal flower for a child to grow in a pot or in window boxes.