SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Seed To Bloom:
12-14 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Start in containers 4-6 weeks before last spring frost. Germinate at 65-70°F, then grow at 55-60°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Recommended. Direct sow in early to mid-spring, just before the last average frost, and again in midsummer for fall bloom; early autumn only in mild winter areas (zones 8-10).
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
In springtime, after frost.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Calendula Cantaloupe Mix is an easy to grow selection for children's gardens, a valuable companion plant in vegetable gardens, an edible and medicinal wonder, and lovely in bouquets–especially paired with cornflowers. For sure success deadhead regularly. Calendulas love cool weather; if they flag in heat, cut back by 1/3 and add a side dressing of compost to revive them for a fall show.
Watering Details:
About 1" per week, moderate tolerance to dry soils once established.
Soil pH:
Slightly acidic to neutral
Fertilizer:
Mix in 1-2" of compost when planting into low fertility soils.
Diseases & Pests:
Calendula can be susceptible to powdery mildew—prevent by growing in a good airy location. If mildew is detected, treat it with an organic fungicide. Aphids and tarnished plant bugs may be present—control aphids with sprays of water or insecticidal soaps that also control tarnished plant bugs. Snails and slugs may damage young seedlings. If these pests are present, treat the surrounding soil with iron phosphate pellets. The virus aster yellows, transmitted by leafhoppers, is characterized by twisted growth, pale green leaves, and deformed blooms. Pull up and discard and treat the garden for leafhoppers.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Wait until flowers have fully opened
