Seed Treatment:
• Soak seeds in warm water for 4–6 hours before sowing.
When to Sow:
• Outdoors: Sow directly into the garden in early spring after the last frost or in late summer to fall in mild climates.
• Indoors: Start seeds 4–6 weeks before the last frost date.
Sowing Instructions:
• Sow seeds ¼–½ inch (6–12 mm) deep in well-draining soil.
• Cover lightly and water gently.
• Maintain soil moisture during germination.
• Ideal germination temperature: 60–70°F (15–21°C).
• Germination occurs in 7–14 days.
Light Requirements:
• Prefers full sun, but tolerates partial shade—especially in hot climates.
Soil Requirements:
• Grows well in average, well-draining soil.
• pH range: 6.0–7.0.
• Avoid overly rich soil to prevent leggy growth.
Watering:
• Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.
• Once established, Calendula is somewhat drought-tolerant but will flower better with consistent moisture.
Spacing:
• Thin or transplant seedlings to 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart.
Growing Tips:
• Produces cheerful daisy-like flowers from spring through fall.
• Deadhead spent blooms regularly to prolong flowering.
• Ideal for pollinator gardens, edible landscapes, and medicinal herb beds.
• Calendula petals are edible and often used in teas, salads, and skin salves.
• Grows as a hardy annual but may self-seed readily.