Calendula - Strawberry Blonde

Strawberry Blonde is a standout calendula variety known for its softly shifting tones of blush, apricot, peach, and pale rose, often with subtle hints of champagne and warm gold. Each bloom feels slightly different, giving this variety a painterly, almost antique quality that is especially valued in floral design. Fast to grow and generous in bloom, Strawberry Blonde typically begins flowering within two months of sowing and readily self seeds under the right conditions. Its open, pollen-rich flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

50 seeds minimum.

HOW TO CARE FOR CALENDULA

PLANTING
Grows best in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost or start indoors 6–8 weeks earlier. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 12 inches apart for optimal growth. Germination typically occurs within 5–15 days.

GROWING
Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging. Established plants are drought-tolerant but benefit from regular watering for continuous blooms. Calendulas are light feeders. Amend soil with compost before planting or apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Regularly deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming. Trim plants back by a third mid-season to rejuvenate growth and maintain a tidy appearance. While relatively pest-resistant ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew.

HARVESTING
For cut flowers, harvest in the morning when blooms are fully open. Calendula flowers are edible, and petals can be used fresh or dried in culinary dishes or herbal preparations.