How to prune field marigold

Throughout the growing season from spring to autumn. Snap or snip spent blooms at the base of the flower stem. Mid-season, if the plant becomes leggy, cut stems back by one-third to a leaf or side shoot. Leave a few late blooms to set seed if you want the plant to naturalise year to year.

Deadhead regularly every 1–2 weeks; cut back once mid-season if needed. Field marigold (Calendula arvensis) is a hardy annual that blooms over a long season with regular deadheading. Removing spent flowers prevents premature self-seeding and encourages continuous bloom. If plants become untidy mid-season, cut back by one-third to stimulate fresh growth and further flowers. Allow some seed heads to ripen if naturalising.

Snap or snip spent blooms at the base of the flower stem. Mid-season, if the plant becomes leggy, cut stems back by one-third to a leaf or side shoot. Leave a few late blooms to set seed if you want the plant to naturalise year to year.