Calendula Bon Bon Yellow is a charming variety of calendula known for its bright, sunny yellow blooms and compact growth. It’s perfect for adding a pop of color to gardens, containers, or flower beds. Here’s how you can successfully grow Calendula Bon Bon Yellow from seeds:
Growing Calendula Bon Bon Yellow:
**1. ** Planting Time:
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Indoor Sowing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost to give plants a head start. This allows them to grow strong before being moved outside.
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Outdoor Sowing: Direct sow seeds outdoors in early spring after the last frost or in late summer for fall blooms in milder climates.
**2. ** Soil Requirements:
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Soil Type: Calendulas prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Loamy or sandy soil is ideal.
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pH Level: They thrive in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
**3. ** Sunlight:
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Light Needs: Calendulas need full sun, meaning they should receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
**4. ** Watering:
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Moisture Needs: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Calendulas are somewhat drought-tolerant but grow best with regular watering.
**5. ** Spacing:
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Planting Distance: Space plants about 8-12 inches apart. This spacing ensures good air circulation and allows the plants to grow without crowding each other.
**6. ** Care:
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Deadheading: Remove spent flowers (deadhead) regularly to encourage continuous blooming and keep the plant looking its best.
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Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once or twice during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of blooms.
**7. ** Pests and Problems:
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Common Issues: Calendulas are relatively pest-resistant but can be affected by aphids, slugs, or powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
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Prevention: Good garden hygiene, proper spacing, and well-draining soil are key to preventing many issues.
Sowing Seeds:
**1. ** Indoor Sowing:
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Seed Starting: Sow seeds on the surface of a seed-starting mix. Lightly press them into the soil but do not cover deeply, as they need light to germinate.
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Temperature: Maintain a temperature of about 65-70°F (18-21°C) for germination.
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Light: Provide bright, indirect light or use grow lights if necessary. Germination usually takes 7-14 days.
**2. ** Outdoor Sowing:
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Sowing Method: Scatter seeds on prepared soil and lightly cover with a thin layer of soil or compost.
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Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist until seeds germinate, which typically takes 7-14 days.
Harvesting and Storage:
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Seed Collection: To collect seeds, let the flowers mature and dry on the plant. Once the seed heads are dry, collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.
Additional Tips:
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Companion Plants: Calendula Bon Bon Yellow pairs well with other annuals and perennials, including other calendula varieties, marigolds, and zinnias. They also work well in mixed containers and flower beds.
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Winter Care: In colder climates, Calendulas are typically grown as annuals. In milder climates, they can self-sow and come back the following year.
By following these guidelines, you should be able to grow a beautiful display of Calendula Bon Bon Yellow, bringing a burst of cheerful yellow to your garden. Enjoy their vibrant blooms and the ease of their care
