Calendula Bon Bon Apricot Seeds

Growing Apricot Calendula from Seed in Jordan

Calendula officinalis Bon Bon Apricot

1. About the Seeds and Plants

Calendula officinalis Bon Bon Apricot is a winter-flowering ornamental annual with attractive apricot flowers, suitable for gardens, beds and balconies. It is also known for medicinal and cosmetic uses in creams and natural preparations. Easy growth and good cold tolerance make it well suited to autumn and winter cultivation in Jordan.

Benefits of Growing Calendula Bon Bon Apricot

Long-lasting flowering from winter into spring. Cold tolerance suits winter conditions. Easy care and fast growth. Attracts butterflies and bees, helping pollinate other plants. Can be used in traditional medicine and herbal preparations.

2. Detailed Instructions for Growing Apricot Calendula from Seed

A. Soil Preparation: 10 Days Before Planting

• Grow apricot calendula in light, well-drained soil, such as sandy or clay soil mixed with peat moss.
• A soil pH of 6-7 is preferred for good nutrient uptake.
• Add 3-5 kg of organic fertilizer per square metre to improve soil fertility.
• Cultivate and aerate the soil thoroughly to prevent water accumulating around the roots.

B. Gardening Tools and Supplies

• A garden spade for soil preparation.
• High-quality Calendula Bon Bon Apricot seeds.
• A hand sprayer or drip irrigation system.
• Pruning shears to remove faded flowers and encourage new blooms.

C. Sowing in Jordan: Months 9-11

• Sow at the start of autumn (September-November) for healthy winter growth.
• Scatter seeds on the soil surface and cover with a light layer of soil, approximately 1 cm.
• Space plants 20-30 cm apart for good airflow.
• Water with a fine mist to maintain even moisture without flooding the soil.

D. Germination: 7-14 Days After Sowing

• Seeds require a temperature of 15-20°C for successful germination.
• Keep the soil moist without waterlogging to prevent root rot.
• After seedlings emerge, gradually reduce watering to encourage deeper roots.

E. Plant Care: Months 1-6

Watering: water apricot calendula moderately every 3-4 days, avoiding overwatering. Feeding: use balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer, as detailed below. Pruning: remove faded flowers to encourage new blooms and bushier growth. Light: provide 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for abundant flowering.

F. Flowering: Months 2-6

• Flowering begins 6-8 weeks after sowing.
• Flowering continues until the end of spring, especially with feeding and removal of faded flowers.

3. Fertilizer Program: NPK 20-20-20

Base Fertilization: 10 Days Before Planting

• Add 3-5 kg of organic fertilizer per square metre to improve soil fertility.

Feeding During Growth

• Month 1: apply 10 g of NPK 20-20-20 per square metre after seedlings emerge.
• Month 2: apply 15 g of NPK 20-20-20 per square metre to encourage vegetative growth.
• Month 3: apply 20 g of NPK 20-20-20 per square metre to support abundant flowering.
• Months 4-6: apply 10 g of NPK 20-20-20 every two weeks to maintain continuous flowering.

4. Common Apricot Calendula Pests and Their Control

• Aphids cause distorted leaves and weak growth. Control: spray horticultural soap or Actara insecticide.
• Red spider mites cause yellowing and wilting leaves. Control: use neem oil or abamectin.
• Powdery mildew appears as white patches on leaves. Control: use Score or Topaz fungicide.
• Slugs and snails feed on young leaves. Control: use a slug and snail bait such as metaldehyde.
• Root rot results from overwatering. Improve soil drainage and reduce watering.

5. Additional Tips for Growing Apricot Calendula in Jordan

Sow from September to November (9-11) for healthy winter growth. Provide 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid overwatering: the roots are very sensitive to excess moisture. Grow in pots or directly in the garden, ensuring good drainage. Regularly remove faded flowers to prolong flowering and stimulate new blooms.

Summary

Calendula officinalis Bon Bon Apricot is a beautiful winter ornamental with soft apricot flowers, easy care and cold tolerance. Balanced watering, suitable 20-20-20 feeding and removal of faded flowers can provide abundant, long-lasting blooms that enhance a garden or balcony.