How to Harvest Calendula Seeds: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Harvest Calendula Seeds

Calendula officinalis, commonly known as pot marigold, is a hardy annual herb that is easy to grow and care for. It is a popular choice for gardeners because it is drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and attracts pollinators. Calendula is also a medicinal herb that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments.

One of the most rewarding aspects of growing calendula is harvesting the seeds. Calendula seeds are easy to harvest and can be used to grow new plants or to save for future use. In this article, we will discuss how to harvest calendula seeds, including the best time to harvest, how to dry the seeds, and how to store them.

Step	Instructions	Image
1	Wait for the calendula flowers to dry. The petals will start to fall off and the seed heads will become brown and papery.
2	Gently cut the seed heads from the plant.
3	Place the seed heads in a paper bag and store in a cool, dry place.
4	When the seeds are completely dry, they can be shaken out of the paper bag and stored in an airtight container.

When to Harvest Calendula Seeds

Calendula seeds are ready to harvest when the flower heads have turned brown and the petals have fallen off. The seeds will be a light brown color and will be easy to see when you shake the flower head.

The best time to harvest calendula seeds is in the fall, after the first frost. This will help to ensure that the seeds are mature and viable.

To harvest calendula seeds, simply cut the flower heads off of the plant and place them in a paper bag. The seeds will fall out of the flower heads as they dry.

Once the seeds are dry, you can store them in a cool, dry place for up to one year.

How to Harvest Calendula Seeds

Harvesting calendula seeds is a simple process that can be done in a few steps.

1. Choose a mature calendula plant that has produced brown flower heads.
2. Cut the flower heads off of the plant and place them in a paper bag.
3. Allow the seeds to dry in a cool, dry place for several weeks.
4. Once the seeds are dry, shake the paper bag to remove the seeds.
5. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place for up to one year.

Tips for Harvesting Calendula Seeds

• To help the seeds dry faster, you can place the paper bag in a warm, sunny spot.
• Be careful not to crush the seeds when you are shaking the paper bag.
• Store the seeds in an airtight container to protect them from moisture and pests.

Harvesting Calendula Seeds: A Video Tutorial

If you would like to see a visual demonstration of how to harvest calendula seeds, you can watch the following video tutorial:

[Video Tutorial: How to Harvest Calendula Seeds](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5y77-_88f9o)

Harvesting calendula seeds is a simple process that can be done by anyone. By following these steps, you can easily collect your own seeds and grow more calendula plants next year.

3. Storing Calendula Seeds

Once you have harvested your calendula seeds, it is important to store them properly so that they will remain viable for planting the following year. Calendula seeds can be stored for up to three years if they are kept in a cool, dry place.

To store calendula seeds, first remove them from the seed heads and place them in a paper bag. Label the bag with the variety of calendula and the date of harvest. Store the bag in a cool, dry place, such as a cupboard or a drawer.

You can also store calendula seeds in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Fill the jar with the seeds and seal it tightly. Store the jar in a cool, dry place.

When you are ready to plant calendula seeds, simply sow them in the garden in early spring. Germination should occur within two to three weeks.

4. Using Calendula Seeds

Calendula seeds can be used in a variety of ways. They can be added to salads, soups, and stews. They can also be used to make tea. Calendula seeds are a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins A, C, and E. They also contain antioxidants that can help to protect the body from damage.

Here are some tips for using calendula seeds:

• Add them to salads, soups, and stews.
• Make tea by steeping 1 teaspoon of calendula seeds in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes.
• Use them in homemade skin care products, such as lotions, creams, and soaps.
• Sprinkle them on popcorn for a healthy and flavorful snack.

Calendula seeds are a versatile and nutritious addition to your diet. They can be used in a variety of ways to improve your health and well-being.

Harvesting and storing calendula seeds is a simple process that can be done by anyone. Calendula seeds can be used in a variety of ways to improve your health and well-being.

How do I know when calendula seeds are ripe?

Calendula seeds are ripe when they have turned a dark brown color and are dry to the touch. You can also check if the seeds are ripe by gently squeezing them between your fingers. If they feel hard and dry, they are ready to harvest.

How do I harvest calendula seeds?

To harvest calendula seeds, you will need to wait until the flowers have completely dried on the plant. Once the flowers have dried, you can carefully cut them off of the plant and place them in a paper bag. The seeds will fall out of the flowers as they dry. You can then store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you are ready to plant them.

How do I store calendula seeds?

Calendula seeds can be stored for up to one year in a cool, dry place. You can store them in a paper bag, glass jar, or plastic container. Make sure that the container is airtight to prevent the seeds from becoming damp.

How do I plant calendula seeds?

Calendula seeds can be planted in the spring or fall. To plant calendula seeds, you will need to prepare the soil by tilling it and removing any weeds. You can then sow the seeds directly into the ground or start them in pots indoors. If you are starting the seeds indoors, you will need to transplant them into the garden once they have reached a few inches tall.

**How long does it take for calendula seeds to germinate?

Calendula seeds typically germinate within 7-10 days. However, the germination time may vary depending on the conditions.

How do I care for calendula plants?

Calendula plants are relatively easy to care for. They require full sun and well-drained soil. You should water them regularly, but make sure not to overwater them. Calendula plants are drought-tolerant and can withstand some neglect.

What are the benefits of calendula?

Calendula has a variety of medicinal and culinary uses. The flowers can be used to make tea, tinctures, and salves. Calendula is also a popular ingredient in soaps and cosmetics.

Are there any side effects to using calendula?

Calendula is generally considered to be safe, but there are some potential side effects. These include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and digestive problems. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult with your doctor before using calendula.

harvesting calendula seeds is a simple process that can be completed in just a few steps. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily collect your own calendula seeds to use for planting next year or to share with friends and family.

Here are the key takeaways from this article:

• Calendula seeds are harvested when the flowers are dry and brown.
• The best time to harvest calendula seeds is in the fall, after the first frost.
• To harvest calendula seeds, simply cut the flower heads off of the plant and place them in a paper bag.
• The seeds will fall out of the flower heads and collect in the bag.
• Once the seeds are dry, you can store them in a cool, dry place for up to one year.

With a little bit of time and effort, you can easily harvest your own calendula seeds and enjoy the benefits of this beautiful and versatile flower for years to come.