Calendula officinalis (Pot Marigold)

Care Guide

Annuals

Perennials

Evergreen

Non-Indigenous

Description:

Calendula officinalis, or Pot Marigold, is a vibrant, easy-to-grow annual flower with medicinal properties and cheerful orange or yellow blooms that brighten gardens.

Other names:

Pot Marigold, English Marigold, Common Marigold

Other Names

Pot Marigold, English Marigold, Common Marigold

Plant Summary

Size:

Height: 30-60 cm x Width: 30-45 cm

Flowers:

Blooms from early spring to late autumn.

Growth Rate:

Fast-growing; reaches maturity within 6-8 weeks after planting.

Origin:

Europe

Light Preference

Light Preference

Watering Needs

Maintenance

Frost Sensitivity

Calendula officinalis (Pot Marigold)

care guide

Fertilisation Frequency

Apply a balanced liquid or slow-release fertilizer monthly during the growing season, following the fertilizer's recommended application rates for flowering plants.

Type of Fertiliser for Pot Marigolds

A balanced fertilizer which contains equal proportions of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, promoting foliage, root, and flower growth.

Time of day to fertilise

Early morning or late afternoon.

Regularly deadheading your Pot Marigold during the flowering season will encourage new blooms to form. Shape the plant as desired, cutting unruly stems back.

Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil.

Soil Acidity: Neutral to slightly acidic (pH 6.0-7.0).

Watering Frequency

Weekly or when the topsoil is dry.

Watering Timing

Early morning to minimize evaporation.

To encourage flowering deadhead spent blooms and provide adequate sunlight and water.

Calendula officinalis (Pot Marigold)

propagation

Propagation by seed

Collect mature seeds from dried flower heads.
Sow directly into prepared soil or seed trays.
Lightly cover seeds with soil and water gently.

Propagation by division (if grown as perennial in mild climates)

Divide clumps in early spring or autumn, ensuring the plant is well-established, with healthy growth and robust roots, before attempting division.
Replant divisions in prepared soil, ensuring the area is enriched with compost or organic matter and loosened to improve drainage and root penetration.

Calendula officinalis (Pot Marigold)

problems

Aphids: Aphids are tiny, soft-bodied insects, often green, black, or brown, that cluster on new growth and flower buds. They cause yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and sticky residue on the plant. Solution: Use insecticidal soap or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves and stems, often causing them to yellow, distort, or drop prematurely. Solution: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimize humidity around the plant.
Root Rot: The first sign of root rot is slow or stunted growth. As root rot spreads, the plant will start showing wilting and yellowing leaves. Improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering.