Calendula officinalis POT MARIGOLD (15 seeds)

Pot Marigold, also known by its Latin name Calendula officinalis, is an annual herbaceous plant in the Asteraceae family. It reaches a height of 25 to 40 cm and is characterized by its rapid growth. Native to the Mediterranean region of Europe, it is now cultivated in many parts of the world.

The plant features green foliage consisting of lanceolate, non-serrated leaves. These leaves, arranged in basal rosettes or along the stems, are covered in a light down that gives them a soft texture.

Its spectacular and colorful flowering period lasts from May to October. The flowers, often bright orange or golden yellow, are arranged in solitary flower heads (capitula) measuring 5 to 10 cm in diameter. Each flower is composed of numerous ray florets arranged in a crown around a central heart of tubular disc florets.

The fruits are achenes—small, dry fruits containing a single seed. At maturity, they are brownish with a rough surface, facilitating dispersal by wind or animals. These achenes are often grouped in crowns around the flower head and are harvested for plant propagation.

Pot Marigold seeds are curved in a "C" shape with small spikes above the main vein, resembling tiny maggots. They are gray in color and measure between 3 and 10 millimeters in length.

- Uses:

This is a plant of multiple virtues, widely used in herbal medicine and cosmetics. Its flowers, rich in flavonoids and carotenoids, possess anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and healing properties.

External use: It is often applied as an ointment or oil to soothe skin irritations, minor burns, and sunburns. It also promotes the healing of wounds and scrapes.

Internal use: The flowers can be used in infusions for their digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also known to support the immune system and promote general well-being.

Culinary & Dyeing: Since the flowers are edible, they can be added to summer salads for color and flavor. It is also a dye plant, providing a creamy yellow color obtained by decocting the flowers.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The best time to sow Calendula is from April or May.
• Sow the seeds directly outdoors in a sunny spot starting in spring. For pot cultivation, sow in a container and cover them with 0.5 cm of soil.
• Water the crop gently and place it in an area where the temperature does not fall below 20°C.
• Germination is fast, generally taking only one to two weeks after sowing.

- Substrate / Soil Type:

This member of the Asteraceae family grows very well in light, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. A mixture of 60% garden soil, 20% compost, and 20% sand is ideal and ensures good root aeration.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

This plant loves a very sunny exposure, although it can tolerate partial shade. To encourage abundant flowering, it is recommended to expose it to at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

It stands up well to cool temperatures. While it can handle light frosts, it is best grown in areas where temperatures do not drop below -5°C. In colder regions, it is often grown as an annual.

- Watering / Water Needs:

The plant has high water needs and requires regular watering, especially during dry spells and at the time of planting. It is important to keep the soil slightly moist, but without excess water, as waterlogged soil can lead to fungal diseases.

- Pests / Predators:

While it is largely resistant to pests, it can be attacked by a few insects such as aphids or slugs. Fungal diseases may also occur if humidity levels are too high.