Thompson and Morgan Calendula Fiesta Gitana Mixed Seed Packet

Calendula 'Fiesta Gitana Mixed' has been awarded an RHS Award of Garden Merit for its outstanding performance in the garden. These easy-to-grow, hardy annual flowers throughout the summer, make it a fantastic choice for outdoor containers. Its compact growth habit and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions render it ideal for patio gardens, kitchen gardens, cottage gardens, wildlife gardens, cut flower gardens, and coastal gardens. Culinary note: Parts of these flowers are edible. Their peppery flavour can enhance bread with both taste and colour. They can also serve as a saffron substitute for colouring rice dishes. To grow Calendula 'Fiesta Gitana Mixed,' sow seeds outdoors from April to May. Select a location that receives full sun and use well-drained soil that has been raked to a fine consistency. Sow seeds thinly at a depth of 1 cm (1/2 inch) in drills spaced 30cm (12inches) apart, and cover the seeds with soil to block light. Water the area regularly, particularly during dry spells. Germination typically takes 5 to 10 days. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them to 30cm (12inches) apart. Alternatively, you can sow seeds indoors from March to April at a temperature of 18-23°C (65-73°F). When the seedlings are big enough to handle, transplant them and grow in cooler conditions until they are ready to be planted outdoors. For winter or early spring flowering, sow calendula seeds in late summer or early autumn, and grow the plants in a cool greenhouse or conservatory. The flowering period is from May to September. Please note that the images provided are for illustrative purposes only, to show expected results upon maturity. Different growing conditions may lead to varying results, and images may vary due to seasonal changes (e.g., deciduous plants may lose leaves in colder months).