Table of Contents:
Choosing the Right Growing Environment, Sowing and Propagation, Daily Care, Harvesting and Utilization
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, is a plant with both ornamental and medicinal value. In recent years, with the pursuit of a green lifestyle, the cultivation of Calendula has received increasing attention. This article will provide you with a detailed introduction to the cultivation methods of Calendula, helping you to easily grow beautiful Calendula.
Choosing the Right Growing Environment
1. Light: Calendula prefers a sunny environment, requiring at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. When growing indoors, it should be placed near a window.
2. Temperature: The suitable growing temperature for Calendula is 15-25°C. When the temperature drops below 5°C in winter, attention should be paid to keeping it warm.
3. Soil: Choose well-drained, fertile sandy soil with a pH value between 5.5-6.5.
Sowing and Propagation
1. Sowing Time: The best times to sow Calendula seeds are in spring and autumn, with spring being the optimal time.
2. Sowing Method: Sprinkle the Calendula seeds on the soil surface, cover with a thin layer of soil, and keep the soil moist.
3. Propagation Method: Calendula can be propagated by methods such as division and cuttings.
Daily Care
1. Watering: Calendula prefers a moist environment. During the growing period, keep the soil moist but avoid waterlogging. In high summer temperatures, you can increase the frequency of watering.
2. Fertilizing: During the growing period, apply a compound fertilizer every 15 days to promote plant growth.
3. Pruning: Regularly prune withered yellow leaves and weak diseased branches to keep the plant ventilated and well-lit.
4. Pest and Disease Control: Calendula is susceptible to pests and diseases such as aphids and spider mites, which should be controlled in a timely manner.
Harvesting and Utilization
1. Harvest Time: The flowering period of Calendula is generally from summer to autumn. The flowers can be picked when they are about half-open.
2. Utilization Methods: Calendula can be used fresh or dried for later use. When used fresh, it can be crushed and applied to wounds. After drying, it can be brewed as tea or used to make ointments.
Cultivating Calendula is not complicated. By mastering the appropriate growing environment, sowing and propagation, daily care, and harvesting and utilization methods, you can easily grow beautiful Calendula. I hope this article is helpful to you.
References:
1. "Encyclopedia of Chinese Flowers"
2. "Home Flower Growing Handbook"
3. "Horticulture Technology" Magazine
Note: The content of this article is for reference only. Specific cultivation methods can be adjusted according to individual actual conditions.