Table of Contents
Introduction
Calendula, also known as pot marigold or common marigold (Calendula officinalis), is a vibrant, easy-to-grow flowering plant. Its bright yellow and orange blooms make it a popular choice for gardens. Beyond its ornamental appeal, Calendula is known for its edible petals, which can be used in salads or as a garnish. It also has a long history of medicinal use, particularly in soothing skin irritations and promoting healing. Thriving in a range of conditions, Calendula is both a beautiful and versatile addition to any garden.
Exploring 6 Varieties of Calendula Plants
Calendula plants come in various varieties, offering a range of flower colors, shapes, and sizes. Some popular varieties include:
Calendula ‘Pacific Beauty’ – This is a classic variety with large, bright orange and yellow flowers. It’s known for its long blooming period and is often used in medicinal and culinary applications.
Calendula ‘Bon Bon’ – A more compact variety with double, fluffy blooms in shades of orange, yellow, and apricot. It’s ideal for containers and small garden spaces.
Calendula ‘Indian Prince’ – Known for its striking deep orange petals with a dark maroon center. This variety adds dramatic color to any garden.
Calendula ‘Snow Princess’ – A unique variety with pale cream or white flowers, offering a softer look compared to the usual bright orange and yellow blooms.
Calendula ‘Radio’ – This variety features bright orange, quilled petals that give the flowers a spiky appearance. It’s a great choice for those looking for an unusual texture in their garden.
Calendula ‘Orange King’ – With its large, vibrant orange blooms, this variety stands out for its bold and intense color.
These varieties all share the easy-care nature of Calendula and thrive in various garden conditions.
How to Grow and Care for Calendula Plant
Calendula is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that’s easy to grow and care for. Here’s a guide to successfully cultivating it:
1. Planting Calendula
- When to Plant: Calendula seeds can be sown in early spring, after the last frost. In mild climates, you can also plant them in the fall for early blooms the next spring.
- Where to Plant: Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Calendula thrives in well-drained soil but is adaptable to various soil types, including poor or sandy soils.
- How to Plant: Sow seeds directly in the garden, about 1/4 inch deep and spaced 6-12 inches apart. The seeds will germinate in about 7-14 days.
2. Watering
- Calendula prefers moderate watering. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once established, it’s somewhat drought-tolerant, but regular watering encourages more blooms.
3. Fertilization
- Calendula doesn’t require heavy feeding. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season for optimal flowering. Too much fertilizer can reduce blooming, so avoid overfeeding.
4. Deadheading and Pruning
- Deadheading (removing spent flowers) is essential to encourage continuous blooming. Regularly trimming off dead or faded flowers will help the plant produce more blossoms.
- Prune back overgrown stems to keep the plant tidy and prevent legginess.
5. Pests and Diseases
- Calendula is generally pest-resistant, but watch out for aphids and powdery mildew. If aphids appear, spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can prevent fungal issues like powdery mildew.
6. Harvesting
- Calendula flowers are edible and can be harvested once fully open. You can use the petals fresh in salads or dry them for medicinal and cosmetic uses. Pick them regularly to promote more blooming.
7. Winter Care
- Calendula is an annual in most regions, but in warmer climates (zones 9-11), it can survive through winter and bloom the following spring. In colder areas, it will die off after the first hard frost. You can collect seeds from the spent blooms to plant the next season.
Additional Tips:
- Calendula can self-seed, meaning new plants may pop up in your garden year after year.
- It’s excellent for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden.
By following these simple care steps, you can enjoy a vibrant display of Calendula flowers throughout the growing season.
5 Steps for Propagating Calendula Plant
Calendula is easy to propagate, primarily through seeds. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Seed Collection
- Timing: Allow some flowers to fade and go to seed after blooming. The seed heads will turn brown and dry out.
- Harvesting: Once dry, collect the seeds by gently pulling them from the seed heads. The seeds are curved and brownish in color.
- Storage: Store the collected seeds in a cool, dry place in a paper bag or envelope until you’re ready to plant.
2. Direct Sowing Seeds in the Garden
- Timing: Sow Calendula seeds outdoors in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, or in late fall in warmer climates.
- Location: Choose a spot that gets full sun or partial shade. Calendula is not fussy about soil quality as long as it is well-drained.
- How to Sow: Scatter seeds directly on the soil, lightly cover them with about 1/4 inch of soil, and gently press them down. Water well.
- Spacing: Space seeds 6-12 inches apart to allow enough room for growth.
- Germination: The seeds should germinate in 7-14 days, depending on temperature and conditions.
3. Indoor Seed Starting
- When to Start: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost for an earlier bloom.
- Containers and Soil: Use seed trays or small pots filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting: Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep in the soil. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Light and Temperature: Place the trays in a warm spot (60-70°F/16-21°C) with indirect sunlight. Calendula seedlings don’t require special lighting conditions.
- Transplanting Outdoors: Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, you can transplant them outdoors, spacing them 6-12 inches apart.
4. Division or Transplanting (Less Common)
While Calendula is mainly propagated through seeds, you can transplant young seedlings or divide plants that have self-seeded naturally in your garden.
- Timing: Transplant seedlings when they are a few inches tall and have a good root system.
- Process: Gently dig around the plant, lift it, and replant in a new spot, ensuring the roots are well-covered. Water immediately after transplanting.
5. Care After Planting
- Watering: Keep the soil moist until the seedlings are well-established.
- Fertilization: Calendula doesn’t need much fertilization; a balanced fertilizer can be applied once a month if necessary.
- Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming and to prevent unwanted self-seeding if desired.
By following these steps, you can propagate Calendula successfully, either by sowing seeds directly outdoors or starting them indoors for an early bloom.
10 Benefits of Calendula Plant
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) offers a wide range of benefits, making it a valuable plant for gardens, culinary uses, and medicinal purposes. Here are some key benefits:
1. Medicinal Uses
- Skin Healing: Calendula is widely known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. It is commonly used in creams, ointments, and balms to treat cuts, burns, rashes, and minor wounds.
- Wound Healing: The plant helps speed up wound healing and reduces inflammation, making it effective in treating conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and acne.
- Antimicrobial and Antifungal: Calendula has natural antimicrobial and antifungal properties, helping to prevent infections and treat conditions like athlete’s foot or fungal skin infections.
2. Digestive Health
- Soothes Inflammation: Calendula tea can help soothe inflammation in the digestive system and alleviate symptoms of conditions like gastritis, ulcers, and colitis.
- Detoxification: Calendula aids in detoxifying the liver, promoting bile production and supporting the digestive process.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
- Calendula is rich in flavonoids and antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation throughout the body. This makes it useful for treating inflammatory conditions such as arthritis or muscle pain.
4. Culinary Uses
- Edible Flowers: Calendula petals are edible and can be used fresh or dried in salads, soups, stews, or as a garnish. They have a slightly spicy, peppery taste and add color to dishes.
- Herbal Tea: Dried Calendula flowers can be steeped to make herbal tea, which is both soothing and beneficial for digestive and immune health.
5. Skincare Benefits
- Natural Moisturizer: Calendula oil or extracts are often used in skincare products for their ability to hydrate dry skin and soothe irritation. It’s commonly found in lotions, lip balms, and baby products.
- Anti-Aging: The antioxidants in Calendula help protect the skin from environmental stressors, promoting youthful and healthy skin.
6. Garden Benefits
- Pollinator Attraction: Calendula is a favorite of bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which help pollinate the garden.
- Pest Control: Calendula can act as a companion plant to repel pests like aphids and whiteflies, making it useful for organic gardening.
- Self-Seeding: Calendula is a self-seeding plant, meaning it can continue to grow in your garden year after year with minimal effort.
7. Anti-Cancer and Immune Support
- Some studies suggest that Calendula may have anti-cancer properties due to its ability to reduce inflammation and support the immune system. It contains compounds like triterpenoids and flavonoids, which may help protect cells from damage.
8. Antioxidant Rich
- Calendula is rich in antioxidants, including carotenoids and flavonoids, which help neutralize free radicals in the body. This reduces oxidative stress, supports immune health, and promotes overall wellness.
9. Natural Dye
- The bright orange and yellow petals of Calendula can be used as a natural dye for textiles or homemade beauty products.
10. Hair Care
- Calendula extracts are often used in shampoos and hair treatments to soothe the scalp, reduce dandruff, and promote healthier hair growth.
Overall, Calendula is a versatile plant with numerous benefits for health, beauty, and gardening, making it a great addition to any home or garden.
Common Pests
Calendula plants are relatively pest-resistant, but they can still be affected by a few common pests. Here are the pests you should watch out for when growing Calendula:
1. Aphids
- Description: Small, soft-bodied insects that come in various colors (green, black, yellow, etc.).
- Damage: Aphids suck the sap from Calendula leaves and stems, causing the plant to weaken, become distorted, and potentially develop yellowing leaves. They also secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract ants and promote sooty mold growth.
- Control: You can control aphids by spraying the plants with water to knock them off or using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introducing natural predators like ladybugs can also help.
- Aphid Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Aphids
2. Whiteflies
- Description: Tiny, white, moth-like insects that often swarm when disturbed.
- Damage: Like aphids, whiteflies feed on plant sap, leading to weakened plants, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth. Their honeydew secretion can also cause mold growth.
- Control: Control whiteflies by using yellow sticky traps or spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage natural predators such as lacewings and parasitic wasps.
- Whitefly Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Whiteflies
3. Slugs and Snails
- Description: Slugs and snails are soft-bodied, slow-moving pests that leave slimy trails behind.
- Damage: These pests can chew holes in the leaves and flowers of Calendula, often causing significant damage to young plants.
- Control: Use barriers like crushed eggshells, diatomaceous earth, or copper tape around the plants. You can also manually remove slugs and snails or use bait traps.
- Slug and Snail Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Slugs and Snails
4. Powdery Mildew
- Description: Although not an insect, powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects Calendula, appearing as a white, powdery coating on the leaves.
- Damage: It causes leaves to turn yellow, wilt, or drop prematurely, reducing the plant’s vigor and blooming capacity.
- Control: Ensure good air circulation around plants, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected leaves. Fungicides or homemade remedies (like a milk and water spray) can also help control powdery mildew.
5. Thrips
- Description: Tiny, slender insects that can be difficult to see without close inspection.
- Damage: Thrips feed on plant sap, causing silvery streaks, discoloration, and distorted growth on Calendula leaves and flowers. They can also spread plant viruses.
- Control: Use sticky traps, insecticidal soap, or neem oil to control thrips. Maintaining garden cleanliness and removing plant debris can also reduce their numbers.
- Thrip Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Thrips
6. Leafhoppers
- Description: Small, wedge-shaped insects that jump when disturbed.
- Damage: Leafhoppers feed on Calendula by sucking plant juices, leading to yellow or white speckling on leaves, known as “hopper burn.” In severe cases, they can cause leaf curl or transmit plant diseases.
- Control: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage infestations. Row covers can also protect plants from leafhoppers.
- Leafhopper Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Leafhoppers
7. Spider Mites
- Description: Tiny, spider-like pests that are usually found on the undersides of leaves.
- Damage: Spider mites suck the plant’s juices, causing yellow speckling, bronzing, and leaf drop. In severe infestations, they can cover plants with fine webs.
- Control: Wash off spider mites with a strong spray of water or use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Spider Mite Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Spider Mites
By monitoring Calendula plants regularly and taking action when pests are spotted, you can keep your plants healthy and pest-free. Proper plant care, including good air circulation and avoiding overwatering, can also help prevent pest problems.
Common Problems
Calendula plants are generally easy to grow, but like any plant, they can encounter certain issues. Here are some common problems that might affect Calendula and how to address them:
1. Leggy Growth
- Description: Plants grow tall and spindly, with weak stems and fewer blooms.
- Causes: This is often due to insufficient light. Calendula plants require full sun or at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Solution: Ensure the plant is getting enough sunlight. If grown indoors, consider moving it to a brighter location or using grow lights. Pinch back the growing tips to encourage bushier growth.
2. Powdery Mildew
- Description: A common fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves, stems, and flowers.
- Causes: Powdery mildew thrives in warm, humid conditions, especially if air circulation is poor.
- Solution: Improve air circulation around plants by spacing them properly and avoid overhead watering. Water at the base of the plant in the morning. Remove and destroy any infected leaves. Fungicides or homemade solutions like a mixture of milk and water can also help.
3. Yellowing Leaves
- Description: Leaves turn yellow, often starting from the bottom of the plant.
- Causes: This could be due to overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies.
- Solution: Ensure the plant is not sitting in waterlogged soil. Improve soil drainage if necessary, and water only when the top inch of soil is dry. Use a balanced fertilizer if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
4. Aphid Infestation
- Description: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can weaken the plant and cause distorted growth.
- Causes: Aphids tend to thrive in warm conditions and may be attracted to stressed or weakened plants.
- Solution: Spray aphids off with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introducing natural predators, like ladybugs, can also help control aphid populations.
5. Poor Blooming
- Description: The plant produces few or no flowers.
- Causes: This can be due to excessive fertilization, especially with nitrogen-rich fertilizers, which promotes leaf growth over blooms. It can also result from lack of sunlight or overwatering.
- Solution: Use a balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer to encourage flower production. Ensure the plant gets enough sunlight and avoid overwatering.
6. Root Rot
- Description: Plant wilts, and the roots become soft and mushy.
- Causes: Root rot occurs due to overwatering and poor soil drainage.
- Solution: Avoid overwatering and plant Calendula in well-drained soil. If root rot has set in, it is often difficult to save the plant, but improving drainage and letting the soil dry out between waterings can help prevent future issues.
7. Leaf Spot
- Description: Dark spots or lesions appear on the leaves, which may eventually turn yellow and drop.
- Causes: This is usually caused by fungal or bacterial infections, often due to prolonged moisture on the leaves.
- Solution: Avoid overhead watering and water at the base of the plant. Remove and destroy affected leaves. Fungicides may help control the spread of the infection.
8. Wilting
- Description: The plant wilts even when the soil is moist.
- Causes: This could be caused by heat stress, poor soil drainage, or root diseases.
- Solution: Ensure the plant is well-watered, especially during hot weather. Improve soil drainage if necessary, and check for root diseases such as root rot.
9. Pests (Aphids, Whiteflies, Slugs)
- Description: Small insects feed on plant sap or chew holes in leaves, causing wilting, yellowing, or distorted growth.
- Causes: Pests like aphids, whiteflies, and slugs can infest Calendula plants.
- Solution: Use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or manual removal for aphids and whiteflies. For slugs, use barriers like crushed eggshells or traps to keep them away from the plants.
10. Self-Seeding
- Description: While this isn’t necessarily a problem for everyone, Calendula can self-seed aggressively, leading to unwanted plants in other parts of the garden.
- Causes: Calendula flowers readily go to seed and spread around the garden.
- Solution: Deadhead (remove spent flowers) regularly to prevent the plant from going to seed, or collect the seeds if you want to control where new plants grow.
By addressing these common problems early on, you can keep your Calendula plants healthy and vibrant throughout the growing season.
FAQs
1. What is Calendula used for?
Calendula has many uses, both ornamental and practical. It is commonly grown as a garden flower, but it is also valued for its medicinal properties. The plant is used in skincare products to treat wounds, burns, and skin irritations, and its petals are edible, often used in salads or as a garnish. Additionally, Calendula tea is used for digestive issues and to boost immune health.
2. Is Calendula easy to grow?
Yes, Calendula is very easy to grow. It thrives in a wide range of soils and requires minimal care. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, and it is moderately drought-tolerant once established. Calendula is also resistant to many common pests and diseases, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners.
3. Can I eat Calendula flowers?
Yes, the petals of Calendula flowers are edible. They have a slightly spicy, peppery flavor and can be used fresh in salads, soups, and stews, or as a colorful garnish. Dried petals can be used in teas or to add color to rice and other dishes.
4. How do I propagate Calendula?
Calendula is most commonly propagated through seeds. You can either sow seeds directly in the garden in early spring or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. The plant readily self-seeds, so once you grow it, it may return year after year if the conditions are favorable.
5. How long does Calendula bloom?
Calendula plants typically bloom from early summer through fall. Regular deadheading (removing spent flowers) encourages continuous blooming and prevents the plant from going to seed too early. In warmer climates, Calendula can bloom year-round.
6. Does Calendula attract pollinators?
Yes, Calendula is a favorite among bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Its bright orange and yellow flowers provide an excellent source of nectar and pollen, making it a great addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.
7. How do I care for Calendula in winter?
Calendula is typically grown as an annual in most climates, meaning it will die off after the first frost. However, in warmer regions (zones 9-11), Calendula may survive the winter and continue blooming the next season. In colder climates, you can collect seeds from the spent flowers to plant the following spring.
8. What pests affect Calendula?
While Calendula is relatively pest-resistant, it can occasionally be affected by pests such as aphids, whiteflies, slugs, and thrips. Regular monitoring, good garden hygiene, and natural insecticidal soaps or neem oil can help keep these pests in check.
9. Can Calendula grow in containers?
Yes, Calendula grows well in containers. Choose a pot with good drainage, use well-draining potting soil, and place it in a sunny spot. Be sure to water regularly, as containers can dry out faster than garden soil.
10. How often should I water Calendula?
Calendula prefers evenly moist soil, but it is somewhat drought-tolerant once established. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering, as waterlogged soil can lead to root rot.
11. Does Calendula need fertilizer?
Calendula doesn’t need much fertilizer. A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season is enough. Over-fertilization, especially with high-nitrogen fertilizers, can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
12. Can Calendula be used for skincare?
Yes, Calendula is widely used in skincare products due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and healing properties. It is commonly found in creams, ointments, and balms used to treat minor burns, wounds, and skin irritations. Calendula oil and salves are also popular for soothing dry, sensitive skin.
13. Will Calendula self-seed?
Yes, Calendula readily self-seeds, which means that new plants may appear in your garden the following year. If you don’t want the plant to self-seed, deadhead regularly to remove spent flowers before they go to seed.
14. Can I use Calendula in tea?
Yes, Calendula flowers can be dried and used to make herbal tea. Calendula tea is known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties and is often used to aid digestion and promote healing.
Share this post:
