Radio Calendula is a vibrant heirloom calendula bred for reliable, prolific blooming from spring through fall. Growing 18, 24 inches tall with a tidy 12-inch spread, this variety produces flowers reliably within 84, 98 days from seed to bloom. It thrives in full sun with moderate water and drought tolerance, making it a dependable performer in varied growing conditions. Deer leave it alone, and pollinators gravitate toward its blooms, so it earns its place in gardens focused on wildlife and continuous color.
1
Full Sun
Moderate
6-11
24in H x 12in W
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Moderate
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Radio Calendula flowers from March through November, extending the garden season far beyond what typical annuals offer. Its compact yet bushy form and natural pest resistance eliminate the fussy maintenance that stops many gardeners from growing calendula. Direct sowing is not only possible but recommended, meaning you can skip the indoor seed-starting fuss and sow right into the garden twice a year for nonstop blooms.
Calendula petals have been used for centuries in folk remedies and skincare preparations, and Radio Calendula's reliable production makes it practical for gardeners who want to dry or infuse flowers for herbal teas, salves, or tinctures. The cheerful blooms also work beautifully as cut flowers for small arrangements or as edible garnishes for salads.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors in containers 4, 6 weeks before your last spring frost. Germinate at 65, 70°F, then reduce temperature to 55, 60°F for growing on to sturdy transplants.
Harden off seedlings gradually before moving them outside after the last spring frost. Transplant into full sun with spacing of 1 inch between plants.
Direct sowing is recommended and can be done twice yearly. Sow in early to mid-spring just before the last average frost, and again in midsummer for fall blooms. In mild winter areas (zones 8, 10), early autumn sowing is also viable.
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