When to plant Calendula in Patrick Afb, FL
In Zone 10a (Patrick Afb), direct-sow Calendula between November 10 and December 1 for spring, after the January 19 last-frost mark. A second sowing from September 13 to September 27 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Calendula in Patrick Afb, FL
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is a cheerful, edible-flowered cool-season annual valued by herbalists, chefs, and gardeners alike. Its golden-orange petals are used in salves, teas, and as a saffron substitute. Hardy enough to tolerate light frosts, it blooms prolifically in spring and fall, taking a pause during the hottest weeks of summer.
Patrick Afb, Florida is in USDA Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is January 19 and the first fall frost is December 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 335 days.
At an elevation of 491 feet, Brevard County receives approximately 52.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 104°F, so Calendula may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Calendula will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Calendula root diseases.
Patrick Afb Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
4.8-5.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Calendula
Calendula needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Calendula Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.3" | 2.2" | 2.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Feb | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Mar | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.5" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 7.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 6.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 6.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 7.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 4.3" | 1.9" | 2.4" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Dec | 4.3" | 2.3" | 2" | 💧 Light watering |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Jan–Dec in Brevard County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Calendula Planting Timeline — Patrick Afb, FL
Calendula Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | December 8 | Dec 8 – Dec 22 |
| Direct Sow | November 10 | Nov 10 – Dec 1 |
| Bloom | January 19 | Jan 19 – Apr 27 |
| Fall Sowing | September 13 | Sep 13 – Sep 27 |
Plant 0.3" deep · 9" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Bloom |
| February | Bloom |
| March | Bloom |
| April | Bloom |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | Direct Sow |
| December | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 10a
📆 Growing Season
335 days in Brevard County
Growing Tips for Patrick Afb
Direct-sow in early spring as soon as soil can be worked — seeds germinate in cool soil (50-65°F). In zones 7+, also sow in fall for winter/spring bloom. Deadhead consistently to extend bloom. Plants self-seed readily; save a few spent heads and allow them to drop. Harvest petals when flowers are fully open for best flavor and medicinal value.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Calendula in Other Locations
When should I plant Calendula in Patrick Afb, FL?
In Patrick Afb, FL, plant Calendula after the last frost (around January 19) and before the first frost (around December 20). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Patrick Afb, FL for Calendula?
Patrick Afb sits in USDA Zone 10a. Calendula grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Calendula grow in Patrick Afb's climate?
Yes — Calendula grows well in Patrick Afb's temperate climate. Patrick Afb averages a 336-day frost-free season, with last frost around January 19 and first frost around December 20.
Your Brevard County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Brevard County (Zone 10a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.