No garden should be without this useful, versatile, lovely little herb. Both the flowers and the foliage are edible, and the plant has terrific pest-fighting abilities that attract "good bugs" into the garden and help repel the bad guys.
In the vegetable patch, it is an invaluable companion to tomatoes, peppers, and more. In the herb garden, it is a delicious edible. And in the cutting garden, it's a bright yellow presence for all your vases.
Also known as pot marigold, this plant sports 2- to 3-inch single daisy-shaped blooms of yellow. They are edible, and in fact make an economical substitute for saffron. Profuse and long-lasting, they arise in spring and fall.
The 4-inch foliage is also edible, though it can be bitter. Cut it young for best flavor and texture.
Calendula is untroubled by pests and diseases, and is so easy to grow that it's recommended for growing by kids and new gardeners. Happy in sun to light shade, it prefers cool summer climates. Cut it back when the weather warms up and it will usually rebloom in autumn.
This plant reaches 15 to 30 inches high and wide, depending on climate. Native to southern Europe, it is happy in well-drained soil of any type. Sprinkle these plants throughout the garden to keep destructive bugs away and to beautify your landscape.
