Calendula Lends Cheer in Winter

Question: When is the best time to plant calendulas? What varieties do you recommend and what tips can you give me for growing them?

A.K.,

Rancho Santa Margarita

Answer: Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is a great annual flower for brightening our winter landscape. The 2- to 4-inch daisy-like blooms are long-lasting cut flowers and come in a variety of colors, including yellow, apricot, orange, cream and gold, some with a touch of red. They look good in beds, borders and containers.

Although they can easily be grown from seed, at this time of year, for longer blooms, it’s best to buy seedlings at the nursery.

Dwarf strains (growing 12 to 15 inches) include ‘Bon Bon,’ ‘Dwarf Gem’ and ‘Fiesta.’ Taller selections (1 to 2 feet tall) include ‘Kablouna’ (pompon centers), ‘Pacific Beauty’ and ‘Radio’ (quilled, cactus-type blooms).

Calendulas prefer full sun. Although they tolerate poor soil, they require good drainage. If drainage is poor, try raised beds or containers.

You can prolong blooming by removing spent flowers on a regular basis. Feed with a well-balanced fertilizer every two weeks. Also keep consistently moist. Water regularly if winter rains are insufficient.

Have a problem in your yard? University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Master Gardeners are here to help. These trained and certified horticultural volunteers are dedicated to extending research-based, scientifically accurate information to the public about home horticulture and pest management. They are involved with a variety of outreach programs, including the UCCE Master Garden hotline, which provides answers to specific questions. You can reach the hotline at (714) 708-1646 or send e-mail to ucmastergardeners@yahoo.com. Calls and e-mail are picked up daily and are generally returned within two to three days.