Calendula – Bon Bon

Growing Temp 60°F – 70°F
Days to Maturity 50-60 days

Ease of Cultivation and uses: Calendula – Bon Bon is a cheerful annual flower that produces bright, compact blooms in shades of yellow and orange. Known for its ease of growth, it’s an ideal choice for beginners. Calendula thrives in cool weather, and its ability to tolerate light frost makes it versatile in different climates. Aside from being a vibrant addition to the garden, Calendula is also edible and medicinal. The petals can be used to garnish salads, soups, and desserts, and it is well-known for its soothing skin properties when made into balms or oils.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant the seeds outdoors after the last frost when soil temperatures reach around 60°F. Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep, spacing them 6–12 inches apart. Germination typically occurs within 7–14 days. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once the seedlings are established, thin them to allow adequate airflow and growth. Calendula – Bon Bon will start blooming around 50–60 days after sowing, offering bright, compact flowers that last throughout the growing season.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To start early, sow seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost. Use seed trays or small pots filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix, planting the seeds about 1/4 inch deep. Maintain a temperature of 65°F to 70°F for optimal germination. Once the seedlings have their true leaves and the weather has warmed, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 6–12 inches apart. Be sure to plant them in a sunny location with well-drained soil and water them well after transplanting.

Harvesting: You can identify when Calendula – Bon Bon is ready to harvest by observing fully opened blooms. Harvest in the early morning when the flowers are fresh. For edible or medicinal purposes, pluck the petals or cut the flowers at the stem, being sure to leave enough plant material for continuous growth. If drying the petals, spread them out in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, preserving their vibrant color and potency for later use.