Calendula Seeds,
Orange King

Calendula can be planted in both cool and warm seasons. In mild climates, it blooms from late fall to early spring, while in colder regions, it's best to plant in early spring after the last frost. Calendula can tolerate light frost, making it a good choice for early spring planting in many areas​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Seeds can be sown directly outdoors or started indoors. For outdoor sowing, plant seeds after the last frost date when the soil temperature reaches around 60 F. Indoors, start seeds 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, spacing them about 10 inches apart to allow adequate airflow.

Calendula prefers moderate watering; keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. This flower likes full sun but may need partial shade in very hot climates. It tolerates various soil types but performs best in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. In areas with hot summers, some afternoon shade can help prevent wilting​. Calendula self-seeds readily, so allowing some flowers to go to seed can provide a natural source of new plants for the following year​.

Plants easily self-sow the following spring. If growing more than one variety of calendula, you will need to isolate by 1/4 mile from any other calendula varieties, or you can use caging techniques. Seeds are easy to save; the heads turn brown and seeds can easily be harvested in fall. Keep in a cool, dry, dark place until next spring.