Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a versatile plant that can be grown as both a perennial and an annual, depending on the climate and growing conditions. In planting zones 9, 10, and 11, where the winters are mild and the temperatures rarely dip below freezing, calendula is considered a hardy perennial. It can survive and thrive year after year in these regions, providing cheerful blooms and vibrant colors.
However, in areas with colder winters and frosty conditions, such as USDA Grow Zones 2 through 8, calendula is typically treated as an annual. This means that it is planted and grown for a single season, and then replanted the following year if desired. The reason for this is that calendula is not as tolerant of freezing temperatures and harsh winter conditions as some other perennial plants.
As a gardener and landscaping expert, I have found that calendula tends to prefer cooler weather and can struggle in the heat of summer. It thrives during the more mild days of spring and fall, when the temperatures are not too hot and the days are not too long. I have observed that calendula plants may become stressed and stop blooming if exposed to extended periods of scorching heat.
In my personal experience, I have found that calendula performs best when planted in well-draining soil and provided with regular watering. It appreciates full sun to light shade, although it can tolerate some shade during the hottest parts of the day. I have also noticed that calendula can attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to pollinator gardens.
To summarize, while calendula can be grown as a perennial in mild climates, it is most commonly treated as an annual in regions with colder winters. Its preference for cooler weather and its tendency to struggle in hot temperatures make it a versatile and adaptable plant that can be enjoyed by gardeners in a range of climates.
