Calendula Seeds

why you should plant calendula

Calendula, well known as one of the ornamental marigolds, offers stunning colors and depth to any flower bed or garden. These easy-to-grow, pollinator-attracting flowers favor full sun exposure and have long been beloved for their prolific bloom. Blooming throughout the long season, it received its name from the Latin Calends meaning "throughout the months", hence the English word calendar. These blooms are native to Eurasia and North Africa and are a great selection for beds, borders, rock gardens, mass plantings, and even vegetable or herb gardens!

how and when to plant calendula seeds

When planting your calendula seeds, start them indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost or sow directly in the garden just before the last frost date. Be sure to choose a planting site with average, moderately fertile, well-drained soil and full sun exposure. Light shade can be tolerated in hot summer areas. Press seeds on top of the soil, about eight to ten inches apart, and spread 1/4 inch layer of soil over them. Mist the seeds until the top 1/2 inch is moist. Keep plants moist and add compost around the base of established plants. Young plants may be pinched back to promote compact, bushy growth. Deadhead your blooms and pick flowers to further encourage growth. Add flowers and leaves to soups, salads, or rice dishes!

other calendula uses

In addition to calendula culinary use, it can also be used medicinally and has since at least the twelfth century. Calendula has antiviral, antitumor, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. The flower is often used to prevent muscle spasms, reduce fever, treat a sore throat or mouth, ease menstrual cramps, and to treat stomach ulcers. A common way to reap the many benefits of calendula is to prepare it as a tea. Steep dried calendula in boiling water for 10 to 20 minutes, using the tea as a drink or as a mouth rinse for a sore mouth and/or throat. Other times calendula is used in the form of a simple extract, an oil, or a cream.

For more information about planting, growing, and caring for calendula flower seed, see the Calendula Seeds Planting Guide.