If your calendula seeds are not sprouting into flowering plants, there could be a variety of reasons.
Why Calendula Seeds Are not Sprouting
Here are some possible issues and how you can troubleshoot them.
- Planting Time: Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a cool-season flower that thrives best when planted in spring or fall, depending on your specific USDA hardiness zone. For spring planting, it’s recommended to sow seeds outdoors after the risk of frost has passed. For fall planting, you should aim to sow seeds approximately 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost in your area. Planting outside of these optimal times could result in unfavorable growing conditions, impacting seed germination and plant development. Be sure to check the specifics for your local climate and adjust your planting schedule accordingly.
- Seed Viability: Seeds have a finite lifespan, and older seeds may not germinate well. If the seeds are too old or have been stored improperly (exposed to heat, humidity, or light), they may not sprout. Try using fresh seeds stored in a cool, dry place.
- Incorrect Depth: Calendula seeds should be sown at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch. If they are planted too deep, they may not have enough energy to reach the surface.
- Watering Issues: Calendula prefers evenly moist soil, especially during germination. Overwatering can cause seeds to rot, while underwatering may prevent germination.
- Soil Conditions: Calendula isn’t too picky about soil, but it does best in well-drained soil. If the soil is too heavy (clay-like) or doesn’t drain well, the seeds may rot before they have a chance to germinate.
- Sunlight: Calendula needs full sun to grow best, but it can tolerate some shade. If the planted area is too shaded, it may affect germination and growth.
Consider Transplants
If you’ve checked all these factors and still have no luck, you might consider starting the seeds indoors or buying young plants from a local nursery and transplanting them. This can help ensure that the plants have a healthy start.
Also, ensure you’re not over-crowding the plants; calendula needs space to grow and does best with about 8-12 inches between each plant.
Lastly, keep in mind that plants can sometimes take a bit longer than expected to germinate and flower, so a bit of patience can also be helpful. If conditions are right, calendula usually takes 7-14 days to germinate and about 8 weeks to flower from seed.
You may also wish to check out our article on growing calendula.
I’m LeAura Alderson, a garden, herb and plant enthusiast with a passion for discovering the many edible and medicinal benefits of the plants all around us, including the weeds! I’m a writer, editor and media publisher for our family of websites.
While I was certified in fitness and life coaching, I am NOT a health practitioner. However, I’m a lifelong health enthusiast, with a keen interest in healthy, organic foods and making home remedies and the content we share is from our own experience and usage as well as that extracted from scientific research so that you can explore further on your own.
Always seek the advice and guidance of your health practitioners first and foremost.
As a family we’re steadily expanding our gardening, experimentation and knowledge around all things gardening, edible landscaping, fresh organic foods and self sustainability with farming in our future. I also own and manage iCreateDaily.com, a site all about transformation through creation, and the power of positivity, optimism and mindset.