Calendula Pacific Beauty

Climate and Seasonal Considerations

• Calendula can be grown in all parts of Australia.
• It thrives in best temperatures between 15°C and 20°C but can tolerate warmer temperatures if adequately watered.

Soil Requirements

• Calendula prefers well-draining soil with moderate fertility.
• It tolerates a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, but performs best in slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
• Amend heavy clay soils with compost or organic matter to improve drainage.

Planting

Seed Starting

• Sow seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost date. Seeds germinate in 7–14 days at 10–30°C.

Spacing

• Plant seeds or seedlings 50 cm apart to allow for adequate air circulation.

Depth

• Sow seeds 5 mm deep and cover lightly with soil.

Transplanting

• If starting indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors after the risk of frost has passed and they have developed 2–3 true leaves.

Sunlight and Watering

Sunlight

• Calendula prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter regions.
• In areas with intense summer heat, provide afternoon shade to prevent wilting.

Watering

• Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Once established, calendula is somewhat drought-tolerant.
• Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilising

• Calendula is not a heavy feeder.
• A light application of compost or a balanced organic fertiliser at planting time is sufficient.
• Over-fertilising can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Maintenance

Deadheading

• Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding (if desired).

Mulching

• Apply a layer of mulch around plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Pests and Diseases

• Calendula is relatively pest-resistant but may attract aphids, whiteflies, or spider mites.
• Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage infestations.
• Prevent powdery mildew by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.

Harvesting

• Harvest flowers when they are fully open, preferably in the morning after the dew has dried.
• Use fresh petals in salads or dry them for teas, salves, or culinary uses.
• Regular harvesting promotes more blooms.

Companion Planting with Calendula

Benefits of Calendula in Companion Planting

• Pest Repellent: Calendula’s strong scent deters pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and nematodes.
• Attracts Beneficial Insects: The bright flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects that prey on garden pests.
• Soil Health: Calendula’s roots help improve soil structure and suppress weeds.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Its vibrant blooms add colour and beauty to the garden.

Best Companion Plants for Calendula

• Tomatoes: Calendula repels tomato hornworms and other pests.
• Carrots: Calendula deters carrot flies and improves carrot growth.
• Lettuce and Leafy Greens: Calendula’s pest-repellent properties protect these crops.
• Beans and Peas: Calendula attracts pollinators, which can improve yields.
• Herbs: Calendula complements herbs by deterring pests and adding visual appeal.
• Brassicas: Calendula helps repel pests like cabbage moths.

Plants to Avoid

• Avoid planting calendula near fennel or dill, as these plants can inhibit its growth.

How to Use Calendula in Companion Planting

• Interplanting: Scatter calendula plants throughout the garden to maximize their pest-repellent and pollinator-attracting benefits.
• Border Planting: Plant calendula around the edges of garden beds to create a protective barrier.
• Trap Cropping: Use calendula as a trap crop to attract pests away from more valuable plants.

 Additional Tips for Growing Calendula

Hot and Dry Regions:

• In areas with intense summer heat, grow calendula in partial shade and mulch heavily to retain soil moisture. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.

Humid Regions:

• Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew.

Container Growing:

• Calendula grows well in pots. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container has drainage holes. Place the pot in a sunny location and water regularly.

Self-Seeding:

• Allow some flowers to go to seed if you want calendula to return the following year.
• Thin seedlings as needed to prevent overcrowding.

 Troubleshooting Common Issues

 Pests

• Aphids and Whiteflies: Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Spider Mites: Increase humidity and spray plants with water to dislodge mites.

 Diseases

• Powdery Mildew: Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
• Root Rot: Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.

 Poor Flowering

• Causes: Over-fertilizing, insufficient sunlight, or overcrowding.
• Solutions: Reduce fertilizer, provide more sunlight, and thin plants as needed.