Calendula – Fiesta Gitana

Calendula officinalis – Fiesta Gitana

• Growing Temp 50°F – 75°F

• Days to Maturity 45-60 days

Compact, vibrant, and easy to grow: Fiesta Gitana Calendula is a stunning variety known for its bright orange, yellow, and apricot-colored blooms. It is an easy-to-grow flower that thrives in cool weather and can tolerate a range of soil conditions. This edible flower is often used in salads, teas, and herbal remedies, and it also attracts beneficial pollinators to the garden.

Direct Sowing: Sow calendula seeds directly outdoors in early spring after the last frost, or in fall for early blooms the following season. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and 6–12 inches apart in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist until germination, which occurs in 7–14 days. Calendula thrives in full sun to partial shade and benefits from regular deadheading to encourage continuous blooming. Avoid overly rich soil, as this can lead to excess foliage growth rather than flowers.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: For an earlier start, sow seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost. Use seed trays with a light potting mix, planting seeds 1/4 inch deep. Maintain a temperature of 60–70°F and ensure seedlings receive plenty of light. Once seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, harden them off before transplanting outdoors. Space them 6–12 inches apart in a sunny location with well-draining soil. Water regularly but avoid waterlogged conditions.

Harvesting: Calendula flowers are ready for harvest when fully open. For edible or medicinal use, pick blooms in the morning after the dew has dried. Regular harvesting promotes more blooms throughout the season. Use fresh petals in salads, dry them for teas, or infuse them in oils for skincare applications. Removing spent flowers will encourage prolonged flowering and prevent self-seeding if desired.