Overview of Calendula Arvensis L.
Calendula arvensis L. is a member of the daisy family, Asteraceae. Also known as field marigold, this wildflower is found throughout Europe, Asia, and North Africa. This annual or short-lived perennial herb prefers to grow in dry, sandy soils in fields, meadows, and disturbed areas.
General Appearance
The Calendula arvensis L. plant has a bushy stem that grows up to 50 cm high and has a spread of up to 30 cm wide. The leaves are alternate and oblanceolate, measuring up to 7 cm long and 2 cm wide, with sandpaper-like texture. The flowers, which bloom from May to September, are bright yellow with orange centers, and grow up to 5 cm in diameter.
Common Names
Calendula arvensis L. is commonly known as field marigold, wild marigold, or simply, Calendula. In some areas of Europe, it is also referred to as oxeye daisy, which causes confusion because the name is also used for a different plant, Leucanthemum vulgare.
Uses
Calendula arvensis L. has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. The plant contains flavonoids, triterpenoids, and volatile oils, which are believed to contribute to its medicinal properties. It is commonly used to treat skin conditions such as rashes, eczema, and wounds, as well as digestive disorders and menstrual cramps.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Calendula arvensis L. is also a popular ornamental plant for gardens and parks, and is often used in herbal teas, cosmetics, and culinary purposes.
Light Requirements
Calendula arvensis L. is a plant that requires full sunlight to grow properly. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in a spot that receives full sun.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers a mild to cool climate with temperatures ranging between 60-65°F (15-18°C) for optimum growth. It can also tolerate temperatures as high as 85°F (30°C) and as low as 20°F (-7°C) when established.
Soil Requirements
Calendula arvensis L. prefers well-drained soils that are moderately fertile. It grows best in a loamy or sandy soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH. The soil should also be rich in organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to provide the plant with adequate nutrients. However, the plant can tolerate poor soil conditions, but the growth and flower production will be compromised.
Cultivation methods
Calendula arvensis L. is a hardy annual plant that is relatively easy to grow. It prefers full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. The seeds can be planted in the ground in early spring, or indoors six weeks before the last expected frost. After germination, thin the seedlings to a spacing of 12 inches apart. If planting outside, sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep and water well to keep the soil moist until seedlings emerge.
Watering needs
Calendula arvensis L. requires moderate watering, especially during the summer months when the soil may dry out quickly. Watering should be done in the morning or evening, as watering during the day can result in water evaporation due to the sun's rays. The plant should be watered to a depth of at least 4 inches once a week or more frequently in hot and dry weather conditions. Do not overwater as it can lead to root rot, which can lead to the death of the plant.
Fertilization
Calendula arvensis L. does not require too much fertilizer as it performs well in nutrient-poor soil. However, mixing in some compost or well-rotted manure before planting can help enrich the soil. Alternatively, you can use a balanced fertilizer once every three weeks to support the plant's growth during the blooming season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to lush foliage but few blooms.
Pruning
Calendula arvensis L. does not require much pruning, but it's beneficial to deadhead the spent blooms to encourage the plant to produce more flowers. Pinch off the flower stem just below the spent blossom, and the plant will produce more lateral buds that will bloom in a few weeks. Also, harvest the flowers regularly to promote plant growth and stimulate more flowering. You can cut the flowers at any stage, from bud to full bloom, as the plant produces new flowers continuously.
Propagation of Calendula arvensis L.
Calendula arvensis L. is a hardy annual plant and a member of the Asteraceae family. It is popularly known as the field marigold and is grown for its bright yellow and orange flowers.
Propagation Methods of Calendula arvensis L.
Calendula arvensis L. can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation through seeds
The most common method of propagating Calendula arvensis L. is through seeds. The seeds need to be sown in well-draining soil in a sunny location. The ideal time to sow the seeds is in early spring or late summer. The seeds should be planted about 1/8 inch deep in the soil, and they should be spaced about 8 to 10 inches apart. They generally take around 10 to 15 days to germinate, and the optimum temperature for germination is between 65 to 75 °F. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of about 2 inches, they can be transplanted to their final growing location.
Propagation through cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is another way to propagate Calendula arvensis L. Take stem cuttings of about 4 to 6 inches in length from healthy plants and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Water the cutting well, and cover it with a plastic bag to retain moisture. Place the pot in a warm and sunny location, and mist the cutting regularly. The cutting should start to form roots within a few weeks, and once the roots have formed, it can be transplanted to its final location.
Propagation through division
Propagation through division is another effective way to propagate Calendula arvensis L. It involves digging up an established plant and dividing it into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and a few stems. These divisions can then be planted in a well-draining soil mix and watered thoroughly. It is essential to keep the newly planted divisions moist until they establish themselves
Disease Management
Calendula arvensis L. is susceptible to a number of diseases, but the most common ones are fungal infections. Here are some of the most common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal infection that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can be controlled by applying sulfur or copper-based fungicides.
- Botrytis Blight: This is a fungal infection that causes the flowers of the plant to wilt and turn brown. It can be controlled by removing any infected parts of the plant and applying a fungicide.
- Root Rot: This is a fungal infection that affects the roots of the plant and can cause the plant to wilt and die. It can be controlled by improving soil drainage and avoiding overwatering the plant.
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal infection that causes brown spots to appear on the leaves of the plant. It can be controlled by removing any infected leaves and applying a fungicide.
Pest Management
Calendula arvensis L. is also susceptible to a number of pests that can damage the plant. Here are some of the most common pests that might affect the plant:
- Aphids: These are small insects that suck the fluids out of the plant and can cause it to wilt and die. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with soapy water or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause it to turn yellow and drop its leaves. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap.
- Caterpillars: These are the larvae of moths and butterflies, and they can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. They can be controlled by picking them off by hand or using a natural insecticide.
- Slugs and Snails: These are mollusks that can eat the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be controlled by placing traps around the plant or using a natural bait.
