How to Plant Calendula for Cultivation

Select a location with well-drained soil in full sun. Prepare the soil in the fall by tilling in 3 to 6 inches of rotted mature or other organic matter.

Plant calendula seeds in the field about 6 weeks before the last frost. Consider starting with a plot 8 feet long and 6 rows wide. Direct seed in rows 18 inches apart at a rate of 5 pounds per acre. Make sure the seeds are covered with soil for proper germination.

Look for seedlings to emerge 7 to 14 days after germination. Once they have two true leaves, thin calendula seedlings so they are 8 to 10 inches apart. Remove any extra seedlings and plant them at the ends of the rows with the appropriate spacing, which will allow each plant to get enough light water, and nutrients for optimal growth.

Fertilize your calendula if you have low soil fertility. Apply a 5-10-5 fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks. Use care to avoid getting fertilizer on the calendula plants or flowers.

Reseed Calendula in July for a fall harvest if you wish.