In the heart of Miami, my community garden often faces the challenges of intense heat and humidity. I’ve successfully grown calendula in the past, but this year, I’m concerned about how well they’ll fare during the peak summer months. I want to explore ways to diversify my calendula plants to help them withstand the heat better. I’ve heard mixed reviews about different varietals of calendula that might be more heat-tolerant. What specific varieties should I consider, and are there particular planting techniques or companion plants that could help increase their resilience? I’m eager to learn from those with experience in hot climates! Any insights would truly help me bolster my garden’s adaptability.
Hey there! It’s great to hear about your community garden in Miami! Calendula is such a beautiful and versatile flower, and it’s awesome that you’re looking to make it more resilient to the heat. Let’s dive into some strategies you can use to help your calendula thrive during those scorching summer months.
### Choosing the Right Varieties
When it comes to selecting calendula varieties that can handle heat, I’d recommend looking into **Calendula officinalis**. Within this species, there are a few specific varieties known for their vigor and heat tolerance:
1. **‘Calendula Orange King’** - This variety is known for its strong growth and vibrant orange flowers, plus it can handle higher temperatures better than some other types.
2. **‘Resina’** - This one is particularly resilient and has been bred for adaptability. The flowers are slightly smaller but produce plenty of blooms, and the plant itself is quite robust.
3. **‘Pacific Beauty’** - This mixed variety has a range of colors and is also known to be heat tolerant, making it a great choice for adding a splash of color while standing up to the heat.
### Planting Techniques
Now, let’s talk about planting techniques to boost heat resilience:
- **Timing**: Start your seeds indoors or sow them early in the season, ideally in late winter or early spring, so they can establish before the heat peaks. If it gets really hot, consider doing a second sowing in late summer for a fall bloom.
- **Mulching**: Apply a layer of organic mulch around your calendula plants. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and keeps the roots cool during those hot spells. It also suppresses weeds, which can compete for nutrients and water!
- **Soil Health**: Make sure you’re planting in well-drained, fertile soil. Amend your soil with compost to improve its structure and nutrient content. Healthy soil helps plants withstand stress better.
### Companion Planting
Companion plants can play a crucial role in enhancing the resilience of your calendula:
- **Basil**: This aromatic herb can help shade your calendula during the hottest parts of the day. Plus, it attracts beneficial insects!
- **Nasturtiums**: These are not only beautiful but can also help with pest management. They attract aphids away from your calendula, allowing them to thrive.
- **Marigolds**: A classic companion, marigolds can
Your Answer
Please login to post an answer and help the community