Can calendula grow successfully in containers?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Container gardening allows for calendula to be grown anywhere! Container gardening makes this flower accessible to everyone, regardless of the space available. This vibrant flower is ideal for pots and adds a beautiful bloom to balconies, patios, or window sills. The most important part of successful calendula gardening in containers is selecting the correct container and understanding the special care required for its minimal root system.
Choose your containers carefully for healthy calendula. Choose containers that are at least 8 inches deep and have plenty of drainage holes. Materials are important, as well: terra cotta provides better air flow, while plastic retains moisture longer. Containers should also provide enough volume for basketball-sized roots without bunching them up.
Soil Preparation
- Mix 3 parts potting soil with 1 part perlite for drainage
- Maintain pH between 6.0-7.0 using lime if needed
- Add slow-release fertilizer at planting time
Planting Technique
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep spacing 3 per 10-inch pot
- Water thoroughly after planting using gentle spray
- Place in location receiving morning sunlight initially
Ongoing Maintenance
- Check soil moisture daily during hot weather
- Rotate pots weekly for even sun exposure
- Prune leggy stems to encourage bushier growth
Light requirements are notably different for container calendula. While providing 6+ hours direct light daily is recommended, avoid afternoon sun in hotter growing areas. Locations that face south are best suited for cooler growing zones, and east-facing locations are preferable in warmer growing areas. Observe the color of the leaf type as an indication of whether there is enough light for your calendula.
Watering is important in containers. Check the soil every day in summer by inserting a finger 1 inch into the soil. When dry, apply room-temperature water until the water drains from the holes. Putting a layer of mulch on top will help reduce evaporation in hot climates. You can also use self-watering pots, which can help maintain a uniform moisture level in the soil.
Fertilize container-grown calendula every two weeks using a balanced liquid fertilizer. A half-strength formulation will reduce the potential for salt buildup in the soil. You can also apply compost tea monthly as an organic source of nutrition. Yellowing leaves can be a sign that plants need nutrients and should prompt you to increase your feeding again.
Quickly troubleshoot common container problems. Leggy growth often means it's not getting enough light and should be moved. Yellow leaves usually mean it's been overwatered and needs drainage improvement. If there are pests, such as aphids, hosing them off with water can be effective before chemical products are used.
Read the full article: How to Grow Calendula: Complete Guide
