How to Grow Calendula in February: Tips, Advice, and the Best Varieties

How to Grow Calendula in February: Tips, Advice, and the Best Varieties

Calendula, often called pot marigold, is a cheerful and easy-to-grow flower known for its bright orange and yellow blooms. Not only is calendula a beautiful addition to any garden, but it’s also edible, medicinal, and a favorite among pollinators. February is the perfect time to start calendula seeds indoors for a vibrant garden display in spring and summer.

This guide provides all the information you need to grow calendula successfully in February, including the best varieties, sowing tips, care advice, and design ideas.

Introduction: Why Grow Calendula in February?

Calendula is a versatile and hardy flower that thrives in cool weather, making it an excellent choice for early sowing. Starting seeds indoors in February gives plants a head start, ensuring a longer blooming season. Calendula is perfect for garden borders, containers, or as a companion plant in vegetable gardens, offering both beauty and benefits.

1. Choosing the Best Calendula Varieties

Calendula comes in various sizes, colors, and petal forms, making it a versatile addition to any garden.

1.1 Classic Varieties

‘Indian Prince’: Features deep orange petals with a contrasting dark center, ideal for borders.
‘Pot Marigold’: The traditional calendula with bright orange or yellow blooms.

1.2 Double and Specialty Varieties

‘Pacific Beauty’: A mix of large, double blooms in shades of yellow, orange, and cream.
‘Pink Surprise’: Offers unique peach-pink blooms with a soft yellow underside.

1.3 Compact Varieties

‘Calypso Orange’: A dwarf variety perfect for containers and small gardens.
‘Fiesta Gitana’: Compact plants with bright, multi-colored flowers.

2. Sowing Calendula Seeds in February

Calendula seeds are easy to germinate, making them perfect for early indoor sowing.

2.1 Preparing for Sowing

Use seed trays or small pots filled with a light, well-draining seed compost.
Lightly moisten the compost before sowing.

2.2 How to Sow Calendula Seeds

Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep and cover lightly with compost.
Place the trays in a bright location with a temperature of 65–75°F (18–24°C).

2.3 Germination

Calendula seeds typically germinate within 7–14 days. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

3. Transplanting and Planting Calendula

3.1 Pricking Out Seedlings

When seedlings have their first true leaves, gently transplant them into individual pots to encourage strong root development.

3.2 Hardening Off

Before planting outdoors, harden off seedlings by placing them outside during the day for 7–10 days to acclimate them to outdoor conditions.

3.3 Planting Out

Plant calendula outdoors in late spring after the last frost.
Space plants 8–12 inches apart for optimal growth and airflow.

4. Caring for Calendula

4.1 Watering

Water calendula regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods.
Avoid overwatering, as calendula prefers well-drained soil.

4.2 Feeding

Calendula thrives in average soil without much fertilization. Overfeeding can result in excessive foliage at the expense of flowers.

4.3 Deadheading

Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season.

4.4 Mulching

Add a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

5. Protecting Calendula from Pests and Diseases

5.1 Common Pests

Aphids: Spray with insecticidal soap or encourage natural predators like ladybirds.
Slugs and Snails: Use organic pellets or barriers to protect young plants.

5.2 Common Diseases

Powdery Mildew: Ensure good airflow and avoid wetting the foliage when watering.
Root Rot: Plant calendula in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging.

6. Designing with Calendula

6.1 Companion Planting

Calendula is an excellent companion plant for vegetables, repelling pests like aphids and attracting beneficial insects.

6.2 Borders and Edging

Use calendula as an edging plant to add vibrant color to garden borders.

6.3 Containers

Compact varieties like ‘Fiesta Gitana’ thrive in pots, making them perfect for patios or balconies.

6.4 Edible Gardens

Add calendula to edible gardens for its edible petals, which can be used to garnish salads or decorate desserts.

7. Benefits of Growing Calendula

Beautiful Blooms: Adds cheerful, long-lasting color to any garden.
Pest Control: Repels pests like aphids while attracting pollinators and beneficial insects.
Edible Flowers: Calendula petals are edible and can be used in salads, teas, and as garnishes.
Low Maintenance: Easy to grow and thrives with minimal care.
Season-Long Blooms: With proper care, calendula blooms from early spring to autumn.

Conclusion: Start Growing Calendula for Beauty and Benefits

Growing calendula in February is an easy and rewarding way to bring vibrant color, pest control, and edible flowers to your garden. By starting seeds indoors early and following proper care tips, you’ll enjoy a long-lasting display of cheerful blooms that brighten up any space. Whether you grow it in borders, containers, or vegetable gardens, calendula is a must-have for gardeners of all levels.

Happy gardening! 🌱🌼