At a Glance
- Variety:Calendula
Very different from other ‘pot marigolds’ – quilled petals of glowing orange give the impression of a mass of spikes.
Delightful in cottage garden settings or other informal borders.
The strong stems make excellent cut flowers.
Sowing Time
Indoors: February – April
Outdoors: March – May or August – September
Sowing Indoors
For early flowering, sturdier plants, sow in trays of moist seed compost from February to April in gentle warmth 10-15 degree Celsius (50-60 Fahrenheit), Transplant 5cm (2in) apart into other trays of compost when seedlings are large enough to handle. Gradually accustom to cooler conditions before planting out from April onwards, allowing about 30cm (12in) between plants.
Sowing Outdoors
Rake soil to provide a firm, even surface. Sow seeds thinly in pre-watered soil, lightly covering them with a little more soil. Keep moist until seedlings appear and as required in dry spells.
Thinning
When large enough to handle, thin seedlings to allow their development and to prevent overcrowding.
Flowering Time
June – September
