AdminThe Beauty of Calendula
Calendula, also known as “pot marigold,” is a popular annual flower that is well-loved for its bright yellow and orange blossoms. This cheerful flower not only adds a pop of color to any garden, but it also has many beneficial properties. Calendula has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and skincare, and it is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
Benefits of Companion Planting
Companion planting is the practice of planting different crops together in order to benefit one another. This technique has been used for centuries and has many benefits, such as increasing crop yields, improving soil health, and repelling pests. When it comes to calendula, there are many plants that make great companion plants.
Companion Plants for Calendula
1. Tomatoes: Calendula is a great companion plant for tomatoes. It is believed that calendula helps repel pests that can damage tomato plants, such as aphids and whiteflies. 2. Beans: Calendula is also a great companion plant for beans. The flowers attract bees and other pollinators that help increase bean yields. 3. Cabbage: Calendula can help repel cabbage moths, which can damage cabbage plants. 4. Carrots: Calendula can help improve the flavor of carrots and also repel carrot flies. 5. Lettuce: Calendula can help repel slugs and snails, which can damage lettuce plants.
Growing Calendula
Calendula is a relatively easy plant to grow. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It can be started from seed indoors in late winter or sown directly in the garden in the spring. Calendula blooms from late spring until the first frost.
Using Calendula
Calendula has many uses beyond its beauty in the garden. The flowers can be used to make a variety of skincare products, such as salves, creams, and soaps. It can also be used in teas and tinctures for its medicinal properties. In the kitchen, the petals can be used in salads and as a natural food coloring.
Caring for Calendula
Calendula is a low-maintenance plant. It does not require much water and can tolerate some drought. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage more blooms. Calendula can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid climates, so it is important to plant in a well-ventilated area.
In Conclusion
Calendula companion plants are a great way to maximize the benefits of this beautiful flower. Whether you are growing it for its beauty, medicinal properties, or culinary uses, calendula is a versatile plant that is easy to grow and care for. So why not add some calendula to your garden this year and see what benefits it can bring?