The Ultimate Guide to Using Calendula as a Companion Plant

Oleh Anonymous January 24, 2023 Post a Comment

Table of Contents

What is Calendula?

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a beautiful and versatile flower that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. The bright yellow or orange petals of the Calendula flower are not only visually appealing but have numerous benefits for both humans and plants alike.

Calendula as a Companion Plant: A Beginner's Guide

If you're new to gardening, you may not be familiar with the concept of companion planting. Essentially, companion planting involves growing two or more different types of plants in close proximity to one another to benefit each other in some way. Calendula is an excellent choice as a companion plant due to its many beneficial properties.

Benefits of Calendula as a Companion Plant

There are several benefits to using Calendula as a companion plant, including:

Attracting pollinators: Calendula flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, which can help to increase the yield of neighboring crops.
Repelling pests: Calendula contains compounds that repel a variety of garden pests, including aphids, whiteflies, and nematodes.
Improving soil health: Calendula has long taproots that penetrate deep into the soil, helping to break up hardpan and improve soil structure. Additionally, the plant produces a substance called saponin, which helps to suppress harmful soil-borne fungi and bacteria.
Providing shade: Calendula can help to provide shade for more delicate plants, protecting them from the harsh sun and wind.

Plants that Benefit from Calendula Companion Planting

Calendula can be grown alongside a wide variety of plants to help improve their growth and yield. Some of the best plants to grow with calendula include:

Tomatoes: Calendula helps to repel tomato hornworms and other pests while also attracting pollinators to help with fruit set.
Cucumbers: Calendula can help to repel cucumber beetles and other pests while also improving soil health.
Carrots: Calendula attracts beneficial insects that prey on carrot rust flies, which can damage carrot crops.
Lettuce: Calendula provides shade for more delicate lettuce plants while also attracting pollinators to help with seed production.

Growing Calendula as a Companion Plant: Tips and Tricks

If you're interested in using Calendula as a companion plant, here are some tips to help you get ed:

Planting and Care

Calendula is relatively easy to grow and care for, making it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners. Here's what you need to know:

Planting

Calendula can be grown from seed or transplants, depending on your preferences. If you're ing from seed, sow them directly into the ground in early spring after the last frost has passed. Alternatively, you can seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date.

Sun and Soil Requirements

Calendula prefers full sun but can tolerate some light shade. It grows best in well-draining, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter.

Watering and Fertilizing

Calendula doesn't require a lot of water, but it does need consistent moisture to grow well. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on how dry the soil is. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season.

Harvesting and Using Calendula

In addition to its many companion planting benefits, calendula also has several medicinal and culinary uses. Here's how to harvest and use your calendula plants:

Harvesting

To harvest calendula, wait until the flowers are fully open and then cut them off at the base of the stem. Use scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.

Medicinal Uses

Calendula has long been used for its medicinal properties, which include anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and wound-healing effects. You can make a simple calendula salve by infusing the dried flowers in oil and then mixing it with beeswax.

Culinary Uses

Calendula petals are edible and can be used to add color and flavor to salads, soups, and other dishes. They have a slightly sweet, spicy flavor that pairs well with both savory and sweet foods.

A Companion Plant Worth Growing

Calendula is a versatile and beneficial plant that can improve the growth and yield of a wide variety of crops. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just ing out, consider incorporating Calendula into your garden as a companion plant. Not only will it provide visual interest and attract pollinators, but it will also help to repel pests, improve soil health, and provide shade for more delicate plants.

FAQs

Q1: Can I plant Calendula next to any plant?

A1: While Calendula can be grown alongside a wide variety of plants, some may not benefit as much from its presence. Do some research to determine which plants are best suited for companion planting with calendula.

Q2: How often should I water my Calendula plants?

A2: Calendula doesn't require a lot of water, but it does need consistent moisture to grow well. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on how dry the soil is.