The Ultimate Guide to Calendula: Growing, Harvesting, Drying & Using This Powerful Flower

Calendula officinalis is a flower that holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just a burst of golden sunshine in the garden—it’s a healer, a teacher, and a reminder of the deep connection between the earth and our well-being. If you’re looking for a plant that’s as generous as it is beautiful, calendula is your answer.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the journey of growing, harvesting, and using calendula—a flower that’s as much at home in your garden as it is in your kitchen, your medicine cabinet, and your heart.

Why Grow Calendula?

Calendula, often called “pot marigold,” is a treasure trove of beauty and utility. Unlike its distant cousin, the true marigold, calendula is a medicinal powerhouse. Its vibrant petals can brighten your salads, soups, and summer drinks, while its healing properties can soothe your skin and nourish your body.

But calendula’s gifts don’t stop there. It’s a companion plant that attracts pollinators, deters pests, and enriches the soil. It’s a flower that gives and gives, asking for little in return.

The Healing Magic of Calendula

Calendula has been a trusted ally in herbal medicine for centuries. Its gentle yet potent properties make it a go-to remedy for a wide range of ailments.

For the Skin:

Calendula is a skin healer. It can soothe rashes, burns, and wounds, calm eczema and acne, and even ease sunburn and swelling. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties make it a star ingredient in healing salves and balms.

For the Body:

When taken internally as a tea or tincture, calendula can boost your immune system, support your lymphatic system, and reduce inflammation. It’s also known to ease menstrual cramps and digestive discomfort.

For Little Ones:

Calendula is gentle enough for babies, making it a natural choice for treating diaper rash, cradle cap, and thrush.

Choosing Your Calendula Varieties

Calendula blooms in a spectrum of golden hues, from deep oranges to soft pinks. While all varieties are medicinal, those with the stickiest, most resinous petals are the most potent. Here are a few of my favorites:

-Resina: Known for its high resin content.

-Strawberry Blonde: Soft pink and yellow tones.

-Pacific Beauty Mix: Classic bright oranges and yellows.

-Zeolights: Unique peach and bronze hues.

-Oopsy Daisy: Cheerful yellow and orange mix.

-Pink Surprise: Peach-pink with a large center.

- Solar Flashback Mix: Stunning multi-toned petals.

Growing Calendula with Love

Calendula is a forgiving plant, perfect for both beginners and seasoned gardeners.

Soil & Location:

Calendula thrives in well-draining soil but will grow in less-than-ideal conditions. It’s happy in garden beds or containers.

Planting:

Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost, or start them indoors and transplant later. Space plants 8–12 inches apart.

Sunlight & Water:

Calendula loves full sun but can tolerate light shade. Water moderately—overwatering can lead to disease.

Season & Hardiness:

This hardy annual blooms from spring until the first frost and is even somewhat frost-tolerant. It’s also deer-resistant!

Calendula readily self-seeds, so you’ll often find volunteers popping up in your garden year after year.

Harvesting Calendula’s Gifts

To harvest calendula at its most potent, pick the flowers in mid-morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day sets in.

- Choose flowers at peak bloom, just as they fully open.

- Harvest frequently to encourage more blooms.

- Take the entire flower head—the green base contains powerful healing compounds.

Be prepared for sticky fingers—the resin is where the magic happens!

Drying & Storing Calendula

To preserve calendula’s healing properties, dry the flowers properly:

- Spread them in a single layer on a drying screen or paper towel.

- Keep them in a warm, dry, well-ventilated space out of direct sunlight.

- Flowers should be completely dry within 1–2 weeks. They should feel crisp and crumble easily.

Store dried calendula in an airtight container away from light and moisture.

Ways to Use Calendula

Once dried, calendula can be used in countless ways:

Herbal Tea: Steep dried petals in hot water for an immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory tea.

Calendula Oil & Salve: Infuse dried flowers in oil to make a soothing balm for cuts, burns, and dry skin.

Bath Soak: Add dried petals to a warm bath for a skin-healing soak.

Culinary Use: Sprinkle dried petals into soups, stews, or baked goods for added nutrients and color.

Homemade Skincare: Blend dried calendula into lotions, lip balms, or face masks.

Final Thoughts

Calendula is more than just a flower—it’s a reminder of the healing power of nature. It’s a plant that invites us to slow down, to connect with the earth, and to care for ourselves and our loved ones.

So, will you be growing calendula this season? Let me know how you plan to welcome this magical flower into your garden and your life. Don’t wait—your garden and your well-being deserve to flourish! Visit our apothecary and grab your copies of From Seed to Harvest today. 🌿🌸