Calendula

I purchased my first Calendula seeds with plans to use the cute orange blooms in bouquets. While I still tuck a few in here and there, I prefer to use it for its medicinal properties. Fresh or dried, it has become a staple in our home. Great for teas, oil and salves.

Seeds look like little dried sea horses

Growing

Fall is the best time to start calendula seeds. Seeds can be sown into trays or into the garden around mid October. Once they are a good healthy size to plant out, you can transplant. They are frost hardy so no need to cover, just keep an eye out for pests and be sure to water regularly.

The Days to maturity is a quick 50-55 days. I always remember the very first bloom opened on Christmas Day. Each year the time changes slightly but roughly you can expect to harvest from the end of December through May if planted mid/late October.

Harvesting

This is a cut and come again flower, the more you cut the more you get! Be ready to harvest daily when it starts cranking as spring heats up. Also, grab some gloves because it is extremely sticky when you harvest. Harvest early in the morning, after they have unfurled. If you plan to dry, cut the stem off and place blooms upside down out of direct sunlight, in a well ventilated room. A drying screen works well, if using a flat surface flip the flowers every few days. Within a few weeks they should be dry enough to use in teas and oils.

Infused Oil

One of the easiest ways to make a luscious treat for your skin is to infuse oil. Simply fill a clean jar with dried calendula. Leave a little space at the top. Pour in your favorite carrier oil, covering the flowers completely and leave a little space for air. Olive oil, Jojoba, and Grape seed oil work well, it will depend on your skin type. Seal tightly and sit in a sunny window or counter top for a few weeks. Every few days you can shake and turn the jar. Lastly just strain off the flowers and you are left with a little Liquid Sunshine! I enjoy using the oil after showers to moisturize, or for chapped lips. You can also go a step further and make a salve or body butter.

Calendula Salve

Now that you have the calendula infused oil you can create a versatile salve. In a double boiler add 1 cup of the calendula oil, 3 tablespoons beeswax and 2 tablespoons shea butter. Heat on low just until all the ingredients are melted and combined. While still hot, pour into your containers or tins. Once cooled you can add the lids and store in a cool dark place.