Calendula

Calendula is easy to grow in any well-drained soil in full sun. Seeds can be sown directly in the garden just before last frost date, but for earlier bloom start seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before last frost. Successive sowings will provide fresh, blooming plants throughout the season. Use fresh seed as viability declines in storage. Sow the seeds ¼-½” deep; light will inhibit germination. Seeds should germinate in 5-15 days. Once the plants are several inches tall, pinch the vegetative buds to promote bushier plants. Plants flower best when they are not heavily fertilized and they prefer moderate watering. Deadhead regularly to encourage blooming. If the flowers are not removed, the plants may self-sow. This plant has few pests, but may have problems with aphids, powdery mildew and occasionally cucumber mosaic virus. Plants may languish in prolonged hot summer weather but typically recover when cooler weather returns.