Brighten your garden and attract pollinators with vibrant calendula in pots! Discover simple steps for growing these low-maintenance blooms.
About Calendula It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 2-11, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. It prefers cool temperatures and can even tolerate a light frost, allowing for early spring planting and a long blooming season that typically extends from early summer through fall.
If you are short on growing space, you can totally grow calendula in pots on patios, balconies, and other small spaces. With the right care, you can enjoy these beautiful flowers even without a traditional garden plot.
Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide to provide ample space for the roots to develop. Make sure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Terracotta, plastic, or wooden pots are all suitable options.
Use a high-quality potting mix that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. You can create your own mix by combining equal parts garden soil, compost, and perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage.
Plant calendula seeds directly into the potting mix, following the same depth and spacing guidelines as for direct seeding in the ground. Water the seeds gently and keep the soil consistently moist until germination.
Place the container in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. It may require more frequent watering than those planted in the ground, especially during hot weather. Check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch feels dry to the touch.
It’s recommended to feed container-grown calendula with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer label for proper dosage and application.
Follow along to learn more about growing calendula flowers.