Calendula

Calendulas in Barrington

Calendula officinalis

Hardy annual grown for long-lasting edible and ornamental flowers. In the UK it grows well from seed sown in modules or direct outdoors, then keeps flowering for months if you keep picking and deadheading.

Height45cm
SunlightFull Sun
WaterModerate Water

Growing Guide

Step-by-step instructions for growing Calendula

Planting Calendar

Seed DirectLater
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
TransplantLater
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
MaintenanceNow
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
ObservationLater
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
  1. Sow Seeds

    24 Feb – 11 May
    every 3 weeks

    Sow seeds around 24th February - 11th May in a prepared seedbed or where you want the plants to grow. Cover with a fine layer of soil to a depth of and keep the rows lightly moist until germination.

  2. Thin Seedlings

    17 Apr – 24 Apr

    When seedlings are large enough to handle, from 17th April, thin them to the strongest plants. Leave the final spacing at so each plant gets light and air.

  3. Transplant as Companions

    24 Apr – 8 May

    From 24th April, move strong plants into gaps beside tomatoes, cabbages, beans or other vulnerable crops. Water them in thoroughly straight away, then protect young plants with fleece if slugs or cold nights are an issue.

  4. Deadheading & Maintenance

    31 May – 31 Oct

    From 31st May to 31st October, remove fading flowers every few days so the plant does not set seed and keeps flowering until the autumn frosts. Water in dry spells and pick blooms often for the best display.

Companion Plants

Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Calendula.

Good companions

Plants to avoid

Why companion planting matters

Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.

Suggested Varieties

Popular varieties of Calendula to consider

Pacific Beauty

Mixed orange and yellow flowers on strong, reliable plants.

Indian Prince

Double orange flowers with a darker centre, good for cutting and display.

Snow Princess

Creamy white flowers on neat plants with a clean look in borders and pots.

Oopsy Daisy

Compact plants with double flowers, handy for containers and smaller spaces.

Also in nearby towns

See how Calendula timing shifts in other towns with different frost dates.