Field Marigold
calendula arvensis
Also known as: ["African Marigold","Pot Marigold"]
Overview
A hardy annual plant with bright yellow or orange flowers, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","edible fruits","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Calendula |
| Botanical Name: | Calendula arvensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; deadhead regularly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day). Tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. Place in a spot with unobstructed sun exposure; indoors, use a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh midday sun; avoid placing near large shade-providing objects.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging; water early in the day to minimize fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but may struggle above 85°F (29°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leggy growth; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Seeds are the most common and reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., peat-based with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 7–14 days; cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, rooting hormone, pruners, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems to encourage bushiness; snip off faded flowers just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Focus on removing spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and tidying leggy growth.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors; disinfect tools between uses.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; deadhead regularly; avoid pruning in extreme weather.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure adequate drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container. Calendula arvensis is often grown as an annual and may not require repotting.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; avoid overhead watering; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Apply until water begins to drain from the bottom, then allow excess to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or coarse sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or death in prolonged frost.
Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., row covers); plant in a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower drop, and reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth. Reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCalendula arvensis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is not known to cause significant harm, but large amounts may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless ingested in large quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicCalendula arvensis is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause significant harm, but large amounts may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless ingested in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicCalendula arvensis, commonly known as field marigold, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used traditionally in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. However, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless ingested in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Calendula arvensis edible?
A: Yes, the flowers and leaves are edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish.
Q: Does Calendula arvensis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How often should Calendula arvensis be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires watering only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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