Calendula

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a cheerful and versatile annual that brings beauty and practicality to your garden. Its vibrant orange and yellow blooms are not only stunning but also edible, adding a pop of colour and mild flavour to salads, teas, quiches, or baked goods.

Calendula’s medicinal properties make it a staple in herbal remedies, often used for soothing skin irritations or crafting infused oils and salves. A favourite of pollinators, it is easy to grow, self-seeds readily, and provides an ongoing display of blooms throughout the season.

Where Can You Grow Calendula

Calendula thrives in Zones 3-9, preferring full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is ideal for garden beds, borders, and containers, and makes an excellent addition to pollinator and cottage gardens.

History and Historical Uses

Native to the Mediterranean, Calendula has been cherished for centuries as a medicinal, culinary, and ornamental plant. Historically, it has been used to treat wounds, brighten dishes, and add colour to textiles. Today, its many uses continue to make it a favourite in gardens and kitchens worldwide.

Canadian Zone Information

• Zones 8-9: Direct sow seeds in early spring or autumn for successive blooms.
• Zones 5-7: Start seeds indoors in late winter or sow outdoors after the last frost.
• Zones 3-4: Sow seeds outdoors after the last frost or start indoors for an earlier start.

How to Grow and Harvest Calendula

1. Planting: Sow seeds 1-2cm (0.5-1in) deep and space plants 15-20cm (6-8in) apart.
2. Watering: Water moderately, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
3. Harvesting: Pick flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Use fresh petals for cooking or dry them for later use.
4. Maintenance: Calendula requires minimal care and thrives in various soil types.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

1. Allow to Flower and Seed: Let some flowers remain on the plant until seed heads form and dry.
2. Harvest Seeds: Collect the dried seed heads and gently remove the seeds.
3. Dry and Store: Spread seeds on a clean towel or screen to dry completely. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Properly stored seeds remain viable for up to 5 years.

Certified Organic By

Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)