The Calendula flower also known as pot marigold is the October birth month flower. They begin to grow in the summer, and last throughout the fall.
They bloom in colors of orange and yellow. They are a member of the daisy family. They even slightly resemble a daisy. Except that they bloom in yellow and orange.
They have a circular center surrounded by layers of petals. Some have one layer, while other can have two or more layers of petals.
Pot marigolds can either make a good garden flower, or even a good container flower. I have even seen some people use them in their window boxes.
Calendula also works well as cut flowers because they grow upon long stems. They can be anywhere from 12 inches to 30 inches tall. They would look really pretty in a fall arrangement used to decorate your house.
They really bring a touch of fall to your home, inside and out.
Besides being used as floral decorations, the petals of the Pot Marigold flower can be used for cooking. Many people use the petals to sprinkle over rice or potatoes. The petals can also be used as a substitute for saffron.
To start growing this flower, you can either start from seeds, or from store bought plants that have already begun to grow. Remember, this plant grows in the fall. Therefore they will grow best in cooler temperatures.
If Calendula flowers are planted in an area that is too hot, they will not continue to grow.
If you are starting from seeds, start them indoors towards the end of winter and the beginning of spring. Use a potting soil that has some moisture. Keep the soil moist and keep the seeds covered. They grow better in the darkness of the soil.
Once you see the seeds beginning to grow leaves, transfer the plant outdoors. After they are planted, water them, as they need it.
Some insects do like to nibble on the flower and the leaves. Spray with an insecticide, and you plant should grow just fine.
The only sad thing about his flower is that they are annuals. So they will not return the next year. Don’t worry however, they are so easy to grow and take care of that you can plant them again the next year on your own.