Pot Marigold Dwarf `Sunset Buff` apricot

1 gram seeds

How to Seed Pot Marigold Dwarf ‘Sunset Buff’ Apricot (Calendula officinalis)

1. Best Time to Sow (Gulf Region):

   • Outdoors: From October to February, when the weather is cool and mild (15–25°C / 59–77°F).

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

   • Avoid sowing from April to September, as extreme Gulf heat hinders germination and bloom quality.

2. Sowing Depth:
   Sow seeds 0.5–1 cm deep in moist soil. Cover lightly and press gently.
   Calendula can be direct-sown in its final location, as it prefers not to be transplanted too often.

3. Soil:
   Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil with good organic content.
   Ideal Gulf mix: 40% garden soil + 30% peat moss + 20% perlite + 10% compost.
   Avoid heavy clay or overly wet soil.

4. Light & Temperature:

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

   • Place in full sun to partial shade — full morning sun with light afternoon shade is ideal in Gulf conditions.

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

6. Transplanting:

   • If grown in trays, transplant seedlings when 8–10 cm tall.

   • Space plants 25–30 cm apart to allow healthy, bushy growth.

   • Harden seedlings before moving outdoors permanently.

7. Growing Tips for Gulf Climate:

   • Sunlight: Prefers full morning sun and partial afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.

   • Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, but do not overwater. Water early morning or evening.

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

   • Maintenance: Deadhead (remove) faded blooms to encourage continuous flowering.

   • The ‘Sunset Buff’ variety produces apricot to soft peach-colored blooms with a delicate, pastel tone — perfect for pots, garden borders, and cut flower displays.

   • Blooms from late winter to early summer in the Gulf region.