How to Grow Calendula

Calendula (Calendula officinalis) sometimes called 'pot marigolds' provide a bit of warm colour to the winter garden with their lovely apricot, yellow and orange blooms. Growing to around 40 – 45 cm tall, calendulas not only add a bit of bright character to the garden, they can also be used in the kitchen as well, making these flowering annuals one to plant for the cooler months.

Full sun

Regular watering

Well drained soil

Suitable for all climatic zones

How to grow calendula in a garden

Step 1

Choose a spot in the garden that receives full sun and prepare the planting area well by digging in Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser.

Step 2

Fill starter pots or trays with Yates Seed Raising Mix. Sow seeds, cover, firm down and water well. Keep the soil moist so the seeds don't dry out. Alternatively, you can sow the seeds directly where they are to grow.

Step 3

Water gently and keep moist through germination period.

Step 4

The seedling are ready to transplant when they are approximately 5-7cm in height.

Step 5

When transplanting them into your prepared garden bed, ensure seedlings are well spaced – at least 40-45cm apart. Water in well.

Step 6

Mulch with an organic mulch, such as bark chips, sugar cane or pea straw.

Step 7

Feed every 1 to 2 weeks with Yates Thrive Roses and Flowers Liquid Plant Food to promote healthy leaf growth, strong root development and lots of flowers.

How to grow calendula in a pot

Step 1

Choose a pot at least 200mm wide and deep. Position in full sun.

Step 2

Fill the chosen pots with quality potting mix, such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter.

Step 3

Plant directly into the pot by pressing the seeds lightly into the surface of the pot.

Step 4

Water gently and keep moist through germination period.

Step 5

Feed every 1 to 2 weeks with Yates Thrive Roses and Flowers Liquid Plant Food to promote healthy leaf growth, strong root development and lots of flowers.

Yates varieties

Calendula Pacific Beauty

$3.30

Growing tips

Remove spent flowers regularly to encourange further blooms.
Flowers and petals are often used as an edible garnish or for adding colour to a salad.
Do not consume the leaves of the Calendula plant as they are poisonous.
Calendula need darkness in order to germinate. When sowing ensure that you sow at a depth of 12mm and cover well.
Protect young seedlings from snails and slugs with a light sprinkling of Yates Blitzem Snail & Slug Pellets.