We would not know where to classify the calendula. In crop protection, in medicinal properties, in the ecological garden, in the garden, etc.
It can be in all of them because the properties, as well as its color, delight any space that we have available for it.
Combined with its low demands it may be one of the most beloved flowers in an orchard or garden.
Calendula, one of the best flowers in the garden
Inside the marigolds they exist numerous species. One of the best known is Calendula officinalis.
The word calendula has its origin in the término months. Latin word that defined the first day of the month. It was attributed because the frequency of flowering was approximately one month.
I am sorry to say that the plant is not so exact in its flowering but perhaps it is because maintains flowering practically all year round. Perhaps that is why it is highly appreciated.
It always gives us a touch of color, whatever the season we are in. Let’s see what we can get from it:
There are dozens of species:
- Calendula arvensis
- Calendula denticulata
- Calendula officinalis (of which we speak today and the most popular)
- Calendula incana
- Calendula lanzae
- Calendula palaestina
- Calenudla suffru
Properties and uses of calendula
This is the great potential of this flower. Their medicinal properties.
La famous calendula ointment Made with virgin oil, beeswax and calendula flower, it soothes mild skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis. If you intend to make this ointment, take note:
- 1 liter of oil (it can be extra virgin or almond)
- 150-200 g of virgin beeswax. (Variations in the amount of wax will influence the final thickness of the mix).
- 350g of fresh flowers
- Flavoring essential oils (once the ointment is made you can add a few drops to give it a pleasant aroma)
Heat the oil and cook the flowers over a very low heat for 1 hour or an hour and a half. We separate the flowers with a strainer and remove them.
We add the wax and heat until it melts. If we want a smooth and uniform texture, we can filter everything with a cloth strainer or cloth. Pack in a jar and add the essential drops that you want (optional).
In addition to the ointment it also has antiseptic properties, anti-inflammatory and soothing of stomach ailments.
How to grow calendula at home and garden
How to sow
Can be done both in direct sowing and in seedlings. Although it involves a little more work, we recommend sowing in a seedbed.
La temperature will be between 18 and 24 ºC for this period and fine watering and daily. Remember what we have mentioned in other posts about not flooding the seeds during the nascence period with irrigation.
A shower with a fine-flow showerhead is ideal. The sowing depth about 2 cm.
Climatology
We have already said that calendula is easy to grow and maintain, so we cannot call it “demands”. They will be more like notes because this genetic wonder holds everything.
Temperature
Prefer temperate climates o warm, we say prefers because it tolerates even temperatures below zero.
There are cases of down to -5ºC, so do not worry if they announce frost because it is very possible that it will endure it. Still, the optimum is in the mid-twenties.
Light and light exposure
In this you can be a little more specific but not much. We will have to leave it a good exposure to the sun so that it develops strongly.
Water needs and esoil requirements
Requires regular waterings almost daily in the early stages of hatching. Once the flower is developed, they are extended to 2 or 3 a week.
It also adapts well to many types of soil, but draining soil is best.
An amazing marigold finish
Its petals are eaten!
Maybe you knew it but if anyone did not know this culinary aspect, they already know it. They can be eaten and even add aroma and color to dishes.
It has been widely used as the “cheap” substitute for saffron. Here you have a fabulous salad with marigold petals.
Read more: discover all edible flowers
