[tippben]

I want to scatter calendulas (pot marigolds, and the french ones too) through my garden. They won't grow! I've tried seed trays indoors, in the polytunnel, and outdoors. I've tried sowing in open ground as well. From two packets of seed I have about ten plants. I'm mystified, as they used to self seed abundantly in a previous garden. Any tips?

[Margo]

I sow mine in compost and I had a lovely show last year. I collected the seeds from them and have done the same this year. They are waiting to go out when the blooming rain stops (its a fortnight now) I've never had any success planting the seeds straight into the ground. I'm not into all this chemistry with the ground but it might be that.