Tropaeolum (Nasturtium)

• Depending on the variety, Nasturtiums can form a low bushy mound or trail and climb by twining stems. The bush types, from 12 in. tall (30 cm) and 2 ft. wide (60 cm), are great selections for beds and borders, rock gardens, edgings, ground covers, or in mass plantings. The climbing types, up to 6-10 ft. tall (180-300 cm), can quickly cover fences, banks, or stumps.
• Nasturtium blooms from winter through spring in mild winter areas and from summer to fall in colder climates.
• The flowers are long-stalked, funnel-shaped, about 2-3 in. wide (5-7 cm), ranging in color from creamy white to orange, mahogany, red, and yellow. The blossoms may be single or double and have an unusual and refreshing fragrance. They stand out against the pretty foliage of rounded, parasol-like leaves.
• Nasturtiums rank among the most common edible flowers. The delicate blossoms have a sweet, peppery taste similar to watercress. Leaves and unripe seed pods add a citrusy and peppery flavor to salads. Flower buds contain mustard oil and may be used for seasonings. The flowers add eye-catching beauty to the plate and can be used to garnish salads, platters, and savory dishes.
• Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators are drawn to the flowers, making Nasturtium a valuable addition to the vegetable garden. Nasturtium is a good companion plant for beans, broccoli, cabbage, cucumber, kale, melon, pumpkin, and radish.
• In addition, Nasturtium can be used as a trap crop, trapping pests such as aphids and giving a more appealing and delicious meal than nearby vegetable crops.
• Nasturtiums are unfussy plants. They perform best in full sun in poor, well-drained soils. Some afternoon shade is appreciated in hot summer areas.
• The plants thrive on neglect and few pests or diseases bother them. They are no favorite to deer.
• Nasturtium self-seeds readily, keeping a presence in the garden. In warm climates, it blooms and seeds all year round and is considered invasive in many of those areas.
• Nasturtium is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.

When to Plant Nasturtium Flowers

• Seeds can be sown directly in the garden after your last spring frost date. Soil temperatures should ideally be between 55-65°F (12°-18°C).
• Start seeds indoors about 2-4 weeks before the last frost for earlier bloom.
• Nasturtium germinates quickly, sprouting within 10-14 days and blooming in about 6 weeks.

Where to Plant Nasturtium Flowers

• Nasturtium thrives in full sun (at least 6 hours of sunlight daily) in poor, well-drained soils. Some afternoon shade is appreciated in hot summer areas.
• Rich, fertile soils are not recommended as they yield more foliage but reduce flowering. Nasturtiums do better in soils of moderate to low fertility.
• Nasturtium relishes cooler temperatures (in the 70sºF or 20sºC) and often sulks in extremely dry or humid conditions.
• Nasturtium is an excellent choice for beds and borders, edgings, as a ground cover, or in mass plantings. It is also suitable for kitchen gardens and containers and looks great in the cottage garden.
• Butterflies, bees, and other pollinators and beneficial insects are drawn to the flowers, making them a valuable addition to the vegetable garden.
• In addition, Nasturtium can be used as a trap crop, trapping pests such as aphids and giving a more appealing and delicious meal than nearby vegetable crops.
• Nasturtium is a good companion plant for beans, broccoli, cabbage, cucumber, kale, melon, pumpkin, and radish.

How to Plant Nasturtium Flowers

• When sowing directly into the garden, clear the area of weeds, then rake the surface to a fine, crumbly texture.
• Sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep (1 cm) and 10-12 inches apart (25-30 cm) in the garden.
• Water thoroughly after planting.
• Keep the soil moist until the seeds sprout, which should take about 10-14 days.

Caring for Nasturtium Flowers

Water and Moisture

• Water regularly throughout the growing season.
• Nasturtium is somewhat drought tolerant but will perform better in moist soil. If water-stressed, fewer flowers and leaves will be produced.

Fertilizer

• Nasturtium does not need any fertilizer.

Deadheading / Pruning

• Deadheading will promote more blooms.
• If the flowers are not deadheaded, the plants may self-sow.
• Nasturtium may need to be trimmed back occasionally over the growing season. This stimulates new growth and flower production.

Harvesting

• Only Nasturtium grown organically can be eaten. Never eat Nasturtium plant parts grown with pesticides or chemicals.
• Pick the edible leaves with or without their stalk when they are young and small.
• Clip flower buds with scissors right below the point where they join the stem.
• Clip the edible flowers with scissors when they are at their peak freshness – before they are fully open or starting to wilt. Harvest them the day they will be used.
• Snip the seed pods from the stems using scissors while they are still green. They can be used as a substitute for capers. Pickle them in vinegar.
• Leaves or stems can be stored for a few days in the fridge.
• When serving edible flowers fresh, add them to your dish just before serving.
• Collect Nasturtium seeds when they are ripe, dry them, and store them in a paper envelope in a cool and dark place. In mild areas, Nasturtium is also likely to self-sow and volunteer year after year.

Propagating

• Nasturtium is propagated easily from seed or cuttings.

Pest and Diseases

• Nasturtium has no serious pest or disease issues. However, some problems may occasionally occur:
• Aphids: Leaves, stems, and buds distorted.
• Leaf miners: Leaves with tan or brown blotches or serpentine tunnels.
• Bacterial wilt: Plant yellows, wilts, and dies.
• Flea beetles: Leaves with many tiny holes.