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Nasturtium flowers are among the most versatile and charming plants for any garden. They are known for their bright, cheerful blooms and round green leaves that instantly add beauty to flower beds, containers, and even vegetable gardens. Gardeners love them not only for their ornamental appeal but also because they are edible. Both the leaves and flowers are peppery in taste and make a unique addition to salads and dishes.
The best part about nasturtiums is that they are incredibly easy to grow. Whether you are a beginner gardener or someone with years of experience, nasturtiums will reward you with vibrant colors and low-maintenance growth. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from planting to caring and making the most of these wonderful flowers.
Varieties of Nasturtium
Nasturtiums come in two main types: trailing and bush varieties.
Trailing nasturtiums are perfect for hanging baskets, containers, and garden edges where they can spill over beautifully. They often grow long stems covered in vibrant flowers that cascade down, creating a stunning display.
Bush varieties, on the other hand, grow more compact and upright. These are better suited for flower beds or spaces where you want neat clusters of color.
Both types come in a wide range of colors, from fiery reds and oranges to sunny yellows and even creamy shades. Some newer hybrids even have bicolored petals, which can make your garden look unique and lively.
Choosing the Right Location
Nasturtiums are sun-loving plants. They perform best when they receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. If grown in too much shade, they may still produce foliage but with fewer flowers.
These plants are not fussy about soil, but they prefer slightly poor, well-drained soil. Surprisingly, overly fertile soil can cause them to grow lush green leaves at the expense of blooms. A spot with average soil and good drainage is perfect for getting the most out of your nasturtiums.
If you live in a cooler region, choose a sunny spot that warms quickly in spring. In hot climates, providing them with light afternoon shade can prevent stress and extend their flowering season.
Planting Nasturtiums from Seed
Nasturtiums are usually grown from seeds because they germinate easily and quickly. Direct sowing is often the easiest method.
Start by planting the seeds outdoors after the last frost date in your area. Sow them about half an inch deep and 10 to 12 inches apart. Nasturtium seeds are relatively large, so they are easy to handle. Water them gently after sowing and keep the soil moist until germination occurs, usually within 7 to 14 days.
For an earlier start, you can sow seeds indoors two to four weeks before the last frost. Use small pots or seed trays, and transplant the seedlings outdoors once the soil warms up. Be sure to harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
Watering and Soil Care
Nasturtiums prefer well-drained soil that is not overly rich. Water them moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause root problems, while underwatering during very hot spells may cause stress and fewer flowers.
A layer of mulch around the base can help retain moisture, especially in hot climates. However, keep the mulch light to avoid trapping excess moisture, which can lead to rot.
Fertilization and Feeding
Unlike many other flowering plants, nasturtiums do not need much fertilizer. In fact, too much fertilizer, especially nitrogen, encourages lush leaf growth instead of blooms. If your soil is particularly poor, a light application of balanced fertilizer at the time of planting is sufficient.
Once established, nasturtiums can thrive without any extra feeding. Their ability to flourish in average soil is part of what makes them so easy to care for.
Caring for Nasturtiums
One of the joys of nasturtiums is how low-maintenance they are. Apart from regular watering and ensuring they have enough sunlight, they do not demand much.
Deadheading, or removing spent blooms, can encourage continued flowering throughout the season. If the plants start to look untidy, you can lightly trim them back to promote new growth. Trailing varieties may need occasional guiding or pruning to keep them from overtaking other plants in your garden.
Nasturtiums are annuals in most climates, meaning they complete their life cycle within one growing season. However, they self-seed readily, so you may find new plants popping up the following year without any effort on your part.
Common Pests and Problems
Nasturtiums are often used as companion plants because they naturally attract aphids and other pests away from vegetables like beans, tomatoes, and cabbages. While this makes them a great natural trap crop, it also means they can become infested.
If you notice aphids clustering on the leaves or stems, you can simply hose them off with water or use a mild insecticidal soap. Nasturtiums are resilient and usually bounce back quickly.
Aside from aphids, they may occasionally face issues with caterpillars or leaf miners. Handpicking pests or using organic treatments usually keeps the problem under control.
Companion Planting with Nasturtiums
One of the best uses for nasturtiums in a garden is companion planting. They are particularly useful in vegetable gardens because they deter pests while also adding beauty.
Plant them near cucumbers, tomatoes, beans, or cabbages to help keep aphids and whiteflies at bay. Their bright flowers also attract pollinators like bees, which benefits nearby crops.
In addition, their ability to thrive in poorer soil makes them an excellent filler plant for borders and edges.
Harvesting Nasturtiums for Edible Use
Nasturtiums are not just ornamental; they are also edible. The flowers, leaves, and even seeds can be harvested and used in the kitchen.
The leaves have a peppery, watercress-like flavor that adds a unique taste to salads and sandwiches. The flowers, with their vibrant colors, make an eye-catching garnish while adding a slightly spicy note.
Nasturtium seeds can be harvested and pickled to create what are sometimes called “poor man’s capers.” These pickled seeds are tangy and delicious when added to dishes.
Always harvest nasturtiums in the morning when their leaves and flowers are fresh and crisp. Rinse gently with water before using them in recipes.
Extending the Flowering Season
To keep nasturtiums blooming for as long as possible, ensure they are regularly watered during dry spells and deadhead faded blooms. Light trimming can rejuvenate plants that look tired in mid-summer.
In cooler climates, nasturtiums will often flower until the first frost. In warmer regions, providing a bit of afternoon shade can extend their blooming season well into late summer.
Saving Seeds for the Next Season
Nasturtiums produce large seeds that are easy to collect and save for the next growing season. Once the flowers fade, you will notice round, green seed pods forming. Allow these to mature and dry on the plant until they turn brown and fall off.
Collect the dried seeds, store them in a paper envelope, and keep them in a cool, dry place. With proper storage, nasturtium seeds remain viable for several years.
Conclusion
Nasturtiums are the perfect blend of beauty, practicality, and simplicity. Their bright blooms can uplift any garden, while their edible qualities make them stand out among flowering plants. With minimal care and easy growth, they are an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners.
Whether you want to brighten up your flower beds, attract pollinators, or add unique flavors to your kitchen, nasturtiums are a rewarding addition to your gardening journey.