How to grow Pot Marigold in the UK
Calendula officinalis
Pot Marigold (Calendula officinalis) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Self-seeds happily — sow once and you'll have it forever. Beneficial insect magnet. This guide covers when and how to sow Pot Marigold, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Pot Marigold
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar Sow | Apr | May Plant | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Any reasonable, moisture-retentive but free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Full sun
- Sowing depth
- Surface to 0.5 cm
- Spacing
- 20–30 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow Mar–May; pot marigold (Calendula) self-seeds freely
- Growing
- Easy; a classic companion that attracts hoverflies and bees
- Harvest & upkeep
- Deadhead to keep flowering all summer
- Watch for
- Trouble-free; powdery mildew late on
Companion planting for Pot Marigold
Grows well with:
Pot marigold (Calendula) draws in hoverflies and bees that eat aphids — a good all-round companion.
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Pot Marigold FAQs
When should I sow Pot Marigold in the UK?
In the UK, sow Pot Marigold in March. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Pot Marigold?
Pot Marigold grows well alongside Aubergine, Broccoli, Brussels Sprout, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Chilli. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
How much sun does Pot Marigold need?
Pot Marigold prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
Is Pot Marigold easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Self-seeds happily — sow once and you'll have it forever. Beneficial insect magnet.