What is the difference between calendula and marigold seeds?
If uncertain whether you have a common marigold or the medicinal pot marigold (aka Calendula officials) growing, pluck off a deadhead of the flower and examine the seeds. The common marigold will be straight and stick-like while the calendula will have curved seeds with a toothed exterior (as shown in photo above). But while Marigolds share many similarities to Calendula, they are two very different plants and should not be substituted for each other.Calendula flower (Calendula Officinalis), commonly known as Pot Marigold, is more than a thousand-year-old flower variety.
Can I sow calendula seeds in September?
Calendula seeds should be sown between March and May outdoors, for flowering from June to September, or sown in August to September for flowering in May to July. For those in zones 8 and up, you can direct sow or set calendula starts out in September once summer temperatures cool off to 75F and below. In these zones with mild frosts, calendula will grow and bloom through the winter!A striking contribution to your spring and summer garden, calendula is certain to brighten up your outside space. Sow your calendula seeds in September and give your plants the opportunity to establish strong roots during the colder seasons.Calendula is a cool-season hardy annual that blooms from late fall through spring in mild winter areas, from spring to fall in colder climates. It relishes cooler temperatures and often sulks when summer sets in, especially in hot-weather areas.Moderate watering is best for calendula. To promote a bushier plant, trim your plant back; trimming your plant and picking the flowers encourages growth which will also help your plant to bloom into the fall.
How and when to collect calendula seeds?
However, you can also collect and store seed to sow the following spring. Ensure you allow the seedheads to fully develop on the plant before collecting them (they will turn brown and papery as they mature). Remove them from the plant and lay them on a sheet of paper indoors, to dry for a few days. Store your seeds in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Exposure to temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit will greatly decrease the viability of your seed for future planting seasons. Seeds can be stored in sealed containers, plastic bags, and wax or paper envelopes.As a general rule, seeds are started indoors about 6 weeks prior to your last frost date. During a cold spring, it’s better to delay sowing to ensure the soil temperature is warm enough than to be hasty and get disappointing results.Spread the seeds on newspapers, in a cardboard box, or in an old telephone directory, and allow them to dry between one and three weeks. Often seeds need to be separated from the chaff (the seed casings and debris).Seeds should germinate in around 7-14 days at a soil temperature of 20-22°C. Transplant seedlings to the garden once they have their first true leaves and are large enough to handle (usually 5-10cm tall).
Can I grow calendula from seed?
Calendula can be grown by transplants or seed. Seeds germinate readily. Soaking is not a necessity and your calendula seeds will grow fine without. Where is the best place to plant calendula? The ideal conditions for planting calendula seeds is a location with full sun (at least 6 hrs direct sunlight per day), a well-draining soil and cool temperatures.
How fast does calendula grow from seed?
Commonly known as pot marigold, calendula is different from the common marigold, and instead more closely related to daisies and chrysanthemums. It grows relatively quickly, flowering six to eight weeks from seeding at 1-2 feet tall and wide. They are most commonly orange, but can also be red, yellow, pink, or cream. Though calendula plants can tolerate a light frost, they will not survive harsh northern winters. Those in warmer climates, however, can expect it to bloom all winter long! Read on to learn how to keep pot marigold plants going strong well into the winter.Calendula seeds grow into vibrant, sunshine-colored flowers that aren’t just pretty—they’re power-packed! These blooms are used in herbal teas, skincare, and even salads. They attract pollinators, making them a garden favorite, and their petals have soothing properties for minor skin irritations.