Thompson & Morgan Calendula offinicialis Summer Sunset Seeds

Burst into life with bold, daisy-like double blooms in orange, yellow, cream and apricot, bringing a splash of sunset brilliance to beds with this Thompson & Morgan Calendula offinicialis Summer Sunset Seeds. Loved by pollinators for their nectar-rich flowers, these hardy annuals thrive in almost any soil, including coastal spots, and are easy to grow whether sown outdoors or started off indoors. Each packet comes with full growing instructions, so you'll enjoy a reliable display and even edible petals that add a peppery twist to breads or a golden hue to rice. Culinary note: some parts of these flowers are edible. The light peppery taste of the flowers can be added to breads for extra flavour with a touch of colour. Can also be used as a substitute for saffron when colouring rice dishes. Direct sow calendula seeds outdoors where they are to grow from April to May. Choose a position in full sun on well-drained soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Sow seeds thinly, at a depth of 1cm (1/2") in drills spaced 30cm (12") apart and cover seed with its own depth of soil to exclude light. Water the ground regularly, especially during dry periods. Germination usually takes 5-10 days. When calendula seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them out to 30cm (12") apart. Alternatively, sow indoors from March to April at a temperature of 18-23C (65-73F). When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant and grow them on in cooler conditions until large enough to plant outdoors. For winter or early spring flowering, sow calendula in late summer or early autumn and grow plants on in a cool greenhouse or conservatory. The generous packet includes 175 seeds.