Calendula – Fancy Mix

Calendula – Fancy Mix

• Growing Temp 60°F – 70°F

• Days to Maturity 50-60 days

Ease of Cultivation and uses: Calendula is a beautiful, easy-to-grow flowering herb often prized for its vibrant colors and edible petals. This plant tolerates a range of conditions but performs best in moderate temperatures. It’s known for its medicinal and culinary uses, with the petals commonly used in salads, teas, or as garnishes. Calendula is also beneficial for pollinators, attracting bees and butterflies to the garden.

Direct Sowing: Sow calendula seeds directly into the garden after the last frost, when the soil temperature is between 60°F and 70°F. Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep and 6 inches apart in rows. The seeds will germinate in about 7–14 days. Keep the soil evenly moist during the germination period. Calendula prefers full sun to light shade and can tolerate poor soil, although it thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Once established, calendula is fairly drought-tolerant, requiring little care apart from occasional deadheading to prolong blooming.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To start calendula indoors, sow seeds 4–6 weeks before the last frost date. Use seed trays filled with a well-draining potting mix, and plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep. Keep the trays in a warm location with temperatures between 65°F and 70°F. Once seedlings have developed true leaves and the threat of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 6 inches apart in rows or clumps. Water thoroughly after transplanting and mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Harvesting: Calendula flowers are ready for harvest once the petals are fully open and vibrant. For the best quality, harvest in the morning after the dew has dried. Gently pluck the fully opened blooms, taking care not to disturb the plant too much. Calendula flowers are most potent when fresh, but they can also be dried for long-term use in teas, oils, or salves. Regular harvesting of blooms encourages more flower production throughout the growing season.