Pot Marigold Double Pink Surprise

150 seeds

How to Seed Pot Marigold ‘Double Pink Surprise’ (Calendula officinalis)

1. Best Time to Sow (Gulf Region):

   • Outdoors: From October to February, when daytime temperatures are mild (15–25°C / 59–77°F).

   • Indoors or nursery trays: From December to February for early spring planting.

   • Avoid sowing from April to September, as high Gulf temperatures reduce germination and flower quality.

2. Sowing Depth:
   Sow seeds 1–1.5 cm deep in moist, well-drained soil.
   Cover lightly and press gently to ensure good contact with the soil.

3. Soil:
   Prefers well-drained, fertile soil enriched with compost.
   Ideal Gulf mix: 40% garden soil + 30% peat moss + 20% perlite + 10% compost.
   Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged soils.

4. Light & Temperature:

   • Germination temperature: 18–22°C (64–72°F).

   • Requires full sun for best flowering.

   • In the Gulf, full morning sun and light afternoon shade are ideal to protect from harsh midday heat.

5. Germination Time:
   Seeds germinate in 7–14 days under warm, moist conditions.

6. Transplanting:

   • When seedlings are 8–10 cm tall, transplant into garden beds or pots.

   • Space plants 25–30 cm apart for full, bushy growth.

   • Harden seedlings gradually before moving outdoors permanently.

7. Growing Tips for Gulf Climate:

   • Sunlight: Prefers full morning sun with some shade during the afternoon heat.

   • Watering: Keep soil slightly moist; water early morning or evening. Avoid overwatering.

   • Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during the growing and flowering season.

   • Maintenance: Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage new blooms.

   • The ‘Double Pink Surprise’ variety produces soft pink to peach double blooms — ideal for borders, pots, and floral displays.

   • Blooms from late winter to early summer in Gulf conditions.