Calendula

Calendula can be cultivated through seeds or growing seedlings. The soil must be fertile, well-drained and in a sunny or partially sunny location. In temperate climates, seeds are down in the spring so that the flowers last all summer.

This plants need at least 7 hours a day of sun exposure to bloom. It is recommended to water the plant every other day, in the warmer months it is necessary to water every day.

For new blossoms, calendula should be deadhead regularly, removing dying flowers and damaged leaves. Fertilization is not requires however use organic fertilizers can increase flowering.

This plant has origin in the Mediterranean countries, very fertile in the coastal regions of Brazil.

It was already used by the ancient Greeks for their therapeutic properties and as paint.

In the American Civil War, its leaves and flowers were used to treat the wounded.

Pot marigold is widely used as an insect deterrent, making all vegetables more persistent to diseases, and as an ornamental plant thanks to the deep-orange pigment in his flowers.

The medicinal properties of pot marigold are used to treat inflammatory and bacterial diseases and is also used in cosmetic’s products for skin and hair problems.
The leaves and flowers can be used fresh or dried.

The plant can be used in treatments such as thrush, dermatitis, psoriasis, sunburns, menstrual cramps, gastric, hepatic problems…

It is also used as a dye (from its petals).

Calendula