Caledula

The calendula (Calendula officinalis) is a cool-season annual or biennial plant from the Mediterranean region that grows well across the United States. Also known as the pot marigold, this daisy family (Asteraceae) member bears bright yellow to deep orange flowers from late fall through early spring in mild-winter climates. The large, showy, edible flowers and fragrant, grayish-green leaves make calendula a favorite for borders, herb gardens and flower beds. Calendula plants are easy to grow and require little care.

LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS: USDA hardiness zones: All zones.

CARE INSTRUCTIONS WATER: Give your calendulas 1 to 1 1/2 inches of water once a week during hot weather. Although these plants can tolerate low-water conditions, regular irrigation encourages summer blooms.

FERTILIZER: Mix 2 to 4 inches of compost into the planting soil to promote optimal plant health. Although fertilization isn't necessary for calendulas, incorporating an all-purpose fertilizer into the soil promotes vigor and flowering. The Utah State University Cooperative Extension recommends using 1 to 2 teaspoons of a 16-16-8 fertilizer for each square foot of planting area.

FLOWERING: Blooms yellow and white.

SOIL: Mix 2 to 4 inches of compost into the planting soil to promote optimal plant health.

DISEASE: Keep an eye out for powdery mildew, a fungal disease that causes patches of white, powdery growth to appear on the calendula foliage. Remove any affected plant tissue and dispose of it immediately.