Calendula, otherwise called Pot marigold with its bright yellow and orange flowers, is a familiar sight in every cottage and country gardens. It is a very prolific, easy to grow annual flower. The plant, a native of southern Europe, grows to a height of about half a metre and possess a long flowering period. Pot marigold, scientifically named ‘Calendula officinalis’ is a plant in the calendula genus which consists of about 12-20 species of annual or perennial herbaceous plants in the sunflower family. The ‘calendula’ name comes from the Latin ‘Kalendae’ meaning ‘first day of the month’ presumably because pot marigolds are in bloom at the start of most months of the year. Pot marigold typically blooms quickly in bright yellows, reds and oranges throughout the summer. The petals have a pungent, spicy flavour. It is considered as one of the most versatile flowers to grow in a garden
since it is easy to grow. Choose a site in full sun or a half sunny location with well drained soil.

Calendulas are grown from seeds. Sow seeds early in the season and cover lightly with a quarter inch thickness of garden soil. Add compost to the soil as basal application. Also side dress with additional compost or leaf manure when the plants are well established. Water deeply during dry spells but avoid getting water on the leaves. Young plants need to be pinched back to encourage bushiness. Once pot marigold have grown to a reasonable size (about 8 weeks) they can be transplanted into the gender. Dwarf calendula species
should be planted about 20 cm. apart, whereas normal ones should have a spacing of around 50 cm. Pot marigold makes a great border plant and also a good container plant. It is also an attractive cut flower and can
be grown in the vegetable garden to help with insect control. The culinary uses of the plant include the petals of the flower being used in fish and meat soups, rice dishes, salads and as a colouring for cheese and butter.