Pot Marigold

calendula officinalis

Also known as: ["English Marigold","Ranunculus calendula"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Calendula Category: Flowers

Overview

An annual flowering plant known for its bright orange or yellow flowers and medicinal properties.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","edible fruits","medicinal use","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Calendula
Botanical Name: Calendula officinalis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden beds, containers, or borders in temperate climates
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Edible Gardeners Fragrance Lovers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"2–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 4–6 weeks during growing season.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on deadheading and shaping.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate seedlings gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or nutrient issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate pots for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.

Watering

every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Water at the base to avoid foliage disease; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter

pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).

Ensure soil is not compacted; use mulch to retain moisture; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature

60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during germination.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding when buds form to encourage blooming.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed sowing.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer for cuttings; sow seeds directly in spring after last frost.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.

Timeline

Cuttings root in 2–4 weeks; seeds germinate in 7–14 days and mature in 50–60 days.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture for cuttings.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back stems and remove faded flowers to redirect energy to new growth.

Pruning Plan

Light pruning to encourage bushier growth and more blooms; remove spent flowers to prolong flowering.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, clean scissors.

Checklist

Wear gloves; sterilize tools; remove dead or yellowing leaves; deadhead regularly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).

Method

Gently remove plant; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot annually in spring if grown in containers to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wet foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the root zone without disturbing soil.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to frost damage.

Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors before frost; use row covers for garden plants.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Calendula officinalis may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Calendula officinalis is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced growth and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Calendula officinalis are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Calendula officinalis due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of root systems and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Calendula officinalis is not considered toxic to cats. Its mild properties make it suitable for some pet care applications.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Use in moderation and observe for any unusual reactions.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Calendula officinalis is not considered toxic to dogs. It is sometimes used in pet care products for its soothing properties.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Monitor for any signs of allergic reaction in sensitive pets.
Humans
Non-toxic

Calendula officinalis is widely regarded as non-toxic to humans and is often used in topical applications and herbal remedies. It has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

While generally safe, individuals with plant allergies should use caution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Calendula officinalis edible?

A: Yes, the flowers and leaves are edible and often used in culinary dishes and salads.

Q: Does Calendula attract pollinators?

A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Q: How do I care for Calendula officinalis?

A: It thrives in full sun, well-drained soil, and requires minimal watering once established.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 5–7 days, allowing soi
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","edible gardeners","fragrance lovers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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