The Beauty of Growing Calendula: Tips and Tricks

Calendula, also known as marigold, is a robust herb that can be found in gardens worldwide. This vibrant flower is not only beautiful but also versatile, as it has various uses in medicine, skincare, and cooking. If you're interested in growing calendula in your garden or just curious about the plant, read on for some tips and tricks!

Why You Should Grow Calendula

One of the best things about calendula is its ability to attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Not only does this bring life and beauty to your garden, but it also helps to increase yields in nearby plants.

Additionally, calendula has natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that make it an excellent addition to homemade skincare products such as creams, balms, and salves. It's also an ingredient in many natural remedies for common ailments like sore throats, colds, and digestive issues.

When and Where to Plant Calendula

Calendula is a cool-season annual that prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade. The best time to sow seeds is in early spring, around four to six weeks before the last expected frost. You can also plant seeds in the fall, which will give you early blooms the following year.

As for soil, calendula prefers well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of pH levels, but neutral to slightly acidic soil is ideal.

How to Care for Your Calendula Plants

Calendula is relatively low-maintenance, making it an easy plant for beginners. Water your plants regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued blooming and prevent self-seeding, which can result in overcrowding.

If you notice any signs of disease or pests, treat them promptly with organic methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Calendula flowers

Harvesting and Using Calendula

The best time to harvest calendula flowers is in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day sets in. Gently pinch the base of the flower and pull it off the stem.

Once harvested, you can use calendula flowers fresh or dry them for later use. To dry them, spread the flowers out in a single layer on a screen or hanging rack in a warm, dark, well-ventilated area. Once dry, store them in an airtight container away from sunlight.

You can use calendula flowers in various ways, such as steeping them in hot water to make tea, infusing them in oil for skincare products, or adding them to soups and stews for a pop of color and flavor.

Calendula Oil

Troubleshooting Common Problems

While calendula is relatively easy to care for, it's not immune to problems. Here are some common issues and how to solve them:

• Powdery mildew: Powdery white spots on leaves indicate powdery mildew. To prevent it, keep the foliage dry and avoid overcrowding. If it appears, spray the plant with a solution of one tablespoon of baking soda and one gallon of water.
• Aphids: These tiny, pear-shaped insects suck sap from the plant and cause distorted growth. To get rid of them, spray the plant with a solution of one teaspoon of dish soap and one gallon of water.
• Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which causes wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To prevent it, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid standing water.

Calendula is a beautiful and versatile plant that's worth growing in your garden. Not only does it attract pollinators and have medicinal properties, but it's also easy to care for and adds a pop of color to any landscape. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, give calendula a try!

marigold, gardening, medicinal herbs, natural remedies, skincare, cooking, pollinators, organic gardening