The Growers Guide to Nasturtium

Growing Nasturtium: A Grower's Guide

Why Grow Nasturtium?

First off, nasturtiums are a delightfully colorful addition to any garden. Their vibrant blooms can range from fiery reds to sunny yellows. They’re also easy to grow and incredibly versatile.

Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they're also edible. The flowers, leaves, and seeds all possess a peppery flavor, great for salads or garnishing dishes.

Choosing the Right Variety

Nasturtiums come in two main types: trailing and dwarf. Trailing varieties can cascade over walls or from hanging baskets, while dwarf types are more compact, perfect for borders or pots.

In my experience, trailing varieties like 'Jewel Mix' provide a stunning waterfall of color. On the other hand, 'Alaska' is a charming dwarf variety with variegated leaves.

Ideal Growing Conditions

These plants are not fussy. They thrive in poor soil and neglect. Over-fertilizing can actually reduce flowering. It's counterintuitive but true!

Sunlight is key. Nasturtiums love full sun but can tolerate partial shade. I've found they do best in well-draining soil with moderate water.

An important tip is to let the soil dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Planting Nasturtium

Direct sowing is the easiest method. Sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep and 10-12 inches apart. They germinate quickly, usually within 7-10 days.

If you’re impatient like me, pre-soak the seeds overnight to speed up germination. It's a trick that works wonders!

Caring for Your Plants

Once established, nasturtiums need minimal care. Deadheading spent flowers encourages more blooms. Aphids can be a problem, but nasturtiums often attract them away from other plants.

I've used nasturtiums as a trap crop in my vegetable garden. They lure aphids away from more valuable plants. It’s a simple, organic pest control method.

Harvesting and Uses

All parts of the nasturtium are edible. Harvest flowers, leaves, and seeds as needed. The young leaves have the best flavor, while mature leaves can be a bit tougher.

The seeds can be pickled as a substitute for capers. I once made a batch of pickled nasturtium seeds; they were a hit at our family gathering.

Common Issues and Solutions

While generally hardy, nasturtiums can suffer from mildew in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce this risk.

If your plants start to look leggy, they might need more sunlight. Move them to a sunnier spot or trim back some foliage to encourage bushier growth.

Final Thoughts

Growing nasturtium is an effortless way to add beauty and utility to your garden. Whether for their vibrant colors, edible parts, or pest control benefits, they are a win for any garden.

I can't imagine a growing season without them. Give it a try, and you might find yourself as smitten as I am.

Growing Nasturtium is an excellent way to add a bright, vibrant splash of color to any garden. Not only are they a beautiful addition, but they attract beneficial insects that ward off bad pests and are naturally disease-resistant. The edible flowers, leaves and seed pods provide an incredible array of culinary and medicinal uses, making them an incredibly rewarding plant to grow!