Calendula officinalis, commonly known as pot marigold, is a beloved flower for its cheery yellow and orange blooms. But before these vibrant flowers appear, you first need to grow calendula from seeds. So what do calendula seedlings look like as they emerge and grow?
In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about identifying calendula seedlings, from how they germinate to key traits that distinguish them.
Germination: The First Signs of Life
The journey begins when you sow your calendula seeds, either directly outdoors or started indoors The seeds need proper warmth and moisture to germinate.
Calendula seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days when kept at the ideal temperature of 70-75°F. You’ll know germination is underway once you spot those first tiny green shoots poking up from the soil.
These embryonic seedlings may look delicate but they’re already establishing their root system below ground.
Identifying True Leaves
After 4-7 days, the first pair of smooth, round “seed leaves” called cotyledons will fully unfurl. The cotyledons nourish the seedling, allowing it to start photosynthesis and growth.
Within a week or two, the first set of true leaves will develop. These look different than the cotyledons – they are more oblong in shape, with edges that are lightly toothed or scalloped.
The true leaves signify that photosynthesis is in full swing, allowing rapid growth. Once a few sets of true leaves emerge, calendula seedlings are ready for transplanting or thinning.
Key Traits of Calendula Seedlings
Here are some key features that distinguish calendula seedlings:
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Leaves: The leaves are oblong, scalloped, and borne alternately along the stems. They have a slightly sticky texture.
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Stems: The stems are slender but sturdy, ranging in color from green to reddish-purple depending on variety.
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Growth habit: Seedlings initially have a rosette form with leaves arranged in a circle. As they mature, they develop an upright, bushy habit.
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Flowers: Tiny flower buds may form after 4-6 weeks. These will eventually open into the recognizable yellow or orange calendula blooms.
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Height: Seedlings grow steadily, reaching 6-12 inches tall before transplanting. Some varieties can reach 18-24 inches at maturity.
Ideal Growing Conditions
To help your calendula seedlings thrive, aim to provide:
- Full sun
- Well-draining, nutrient-rich soil
- Consistent moisture – water when top inch of soil is dry
- Cool weather – avoid hot temps above 80°F
- Protection from strong winds and hard frosts
Good care will ensure your seedlings grow sturdy and vigorous.
When to Transplant Outdoors
Calendula seedlings started indoors are ready for transplanting outdoors once they have 3-4 sets of true leaves and the danger of frost has passed.
Harden them off first by gradually acclimating them to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days. Then transplant into the garden, spacing at least 12 inches apart.
Direct sown seedlings should be thinned once they reach 3-4 inches tall, leaving the strongest seedling every 12 inches.
Common Issues with Calendula Seedlings
Here are some potential issues to watch for:
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Leggy growth: Insufficient light causes weak, stretched stems. Provide ample sunlight.
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Damping off: Fungal disease causes seedling stems to rot at soil line. Ensure good airflow and avoid overwatering.
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Wilting: Underwatering causes leaves to droop. Water more frequently when top inch of soil is dry.
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Leaf curl: Aphid infestations cause distorted, curled leaves. Check undersides for pests and treat accordingly.
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Purpling: Cool temps and wind cause purple pigmentation. This is harmless, improving with warmth and protection.
Enjoy the Journey from Seed to Flower
When you know what to look for, it’s easy to identify calendula seedlings by their distinctive leaves, growth habit, and transition to flowers.
Pay close attention as your seeds sprout and seedlings establish. It’s amazing to witness each stage of growth on the way to vibrant, bountiful blooms.
With the right care and growing conditions, you’ll have strong, healthy calendula seedlings ready to grace your garden with months of colorful flowers. Enjoy every step of their journey from seed to bloom!
Edible and Medicinal Uses
One of my favorite aspects of calendula is that its not just for show.
The petals are edible, adding a splash of color and a peppery taste to salads, soups, and baked goods.
Beyond the kitchen, calendula has a storied history in herbal medicine.
Its flowers are known for their anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and healing properties, making them a go-to ingredient for homemade salves, oils, and teas.
Whether youre soothing skin irritations or brewing a calming tea, calendula offers natural remedies right from your backyard.
What should I plant with calendula for companion planting?
Calendula is a fantastic companion plant for a variety of vegetables and herbs.
Its known to deter pests like aphids and can attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and bees.
Planting calendula near tomatoes, peppers, beans, and brassicas (like kale and Brussels sprouts) can help enhance growth and deter common garden pests.
GROWING CALENDULA FROM SEED: Planting Calendula in Both Spring & Fall // Calendula as a Hardy Annual
FAQ
How long does it take for calendula to grow from seed?
It is easy to grow from seed, and quickly grows to maturity in 6-8 weeks after sowing. Calendula or Calendula officinalis, is a hardy annual, and member of the Asteraceae or Compositae family, which share a central disc surrounded by spoon-shaped petals.
What not to plant next to calendula?
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Sage:Sage can be a “bully” in the garden, potentially stealing nutrients and overshadowing calendula.
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Fennel:Fennel releases chemicals into the soil that can inhibit calendula’s growth.
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Tomatoes:Both calendula and tomatoes can compete for nutrients, so keep them at a distance.
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Potatoes:Potatoes are heavy feeders and can deplete the soil of essential nutrients, potentially leaving calendula struggling.
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Other plants to consider:While calendula is a versatile plant, it’s not the best companion for every plant. For example, the roots of your calendula plant can stunt the growth of your beans.
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Pest Attraction:Calendula can attract pests like aphids, thrips, and whiteflies, which may be beneficial if used as a “trap crop” to keep pests away from other plants, but it’s important to be aware of this.
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Cabbage, Broccoli, and Woody Trees:These plants can attract pests that may harm calendula.
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Shady Trees:Calendula needs a lot of sunshine, so planting it under a shady tree can hinder its growth.
Should I pinch out calendula seedlings?
For best results, grow Calendula officinalis ‘Indian Prince’ in light, nutrient-poor, free-draining soil in sun or partial shade. Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering and pinch out shoots to encourage bushy growth. If specifically growing for cut flowers, pinch out the terminal buds to encourage more flowers.
How to identify calendula plant?
The edges of the spatulate or oblanceolate leaves are wavy but not toothed, and the leaves are sticky and aromatic – although this trait is often greatly reduced in modern cultivars. The daisy-like flowers are typically bright orange or yellow but some white and bi-colored cultivars have been developed.