Summary
- Select a sunny spot in your garden or a container with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
- Loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches using a garden fork or cultivator.
- Use nasturtium leaves as a flavorful alternative to lettuce in sandwiches and wraps.
Nasturtiums, with their vibrant flowers and peppery leaves, are a delight to grow. They’re easy to care for, attract pollinators, and add a splash of color to any garden. If you’re wondering how to plant nasturtium seeds, you’ve come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from choosing the right seeds to enjoying your blooms.
Choosing the Right Nasturtium Seeds
The first step in your nasturtium journey is selecting the right seeds. There are many varieties available, each with unique characteristics:
- Dwarf Nasturtiums: These compact varieties are perfect for containers and borders, reaching heights of 6-12 inches.
- Trailing Nasturtiums: These varieties cascade beautifully over walls, fences, and hanging baskets, reaching lengths of 3-6 feet.
- Climbing Nasturtiums: These vigorous climbers can reach heights of 6-10 feet, making them ideal for trellises and arbors.
When choosing seeds, consider the color, size, and growth habit of the variety. Some popular options include:
- ‘Alaska’: A dwarf variety with vibrant orange flowers.
- ‘Whirlybird’: A trailing variety with unique, twisted petals.
- ‘Golden Gleam’: A climbing variety with golden-yellow flowers.
Preparing the Soil and Location
Nasturtiums thrive in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Here’s how to prepare the perfect spot for your nasturtium seeds:
1. Choose a location: Select a sunny spot in your garden or a container with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
2. Amend the soil: If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
3. Prepare the bed: Loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches using a garden fork or cultivator.
Planting Nasturtium Seeds
Now comes the exciting part: planting your seeds! Follow these simple steps:
1. Direct sow: Nasturtium seeds are best sown directly outdoors after the last frost.
2. Spacing: Space seeds 6-12 inches apart, depending on the variety.
3. Depth: Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep in the soil.
4. Water gently: After planting, water the seeds thoroughly.
Caring for Your Nasturtium Plants
Once your nasturtium seeds have germinated, providing proper care will ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms. Here’s what you need to do:
- Water regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.
- Fertilize sparingly: Nasturtiums are light feeders. You can fertilize them once a month with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Deadhead spent blooms: Remove faded flowers to encourage continued blooming.
- Control pests: Nasturtiums are generally pest-resistant, but watch out for aphids and slugs.
Harvesting Nasturtium Flowers and Leaves
One of the best parts of growing nasturtiums is enjoying their edible flowers and leaves. Here’s how to harvest them:
- Flowers: Pick flowers when they are fully open for the best flavor and color.
- Leaves: Harvest leaves any time during the growing season. Younger leaves have a milder flavor.
Enjoying Your Nasturtium Bounty
Nasturtiums add a burst of flavor and color to salads, sandwiches, soups, and even desserts. Here are some creative ways to use your harvest:
- Salad garnish: Add vibrant nasturtium flowers and leaves to salads for a beautiful and peppery touch.
- Sandwiches and wraps: Use nasturtium leaves as a flavorful alternative to lettuce in sandwiches and wraps.
- Soups and stews: Add nasturtium flowers and leaves to soups and stews for a unique flavor twist.
- Pickled nasturtiums: Pickle nasturtium buds and flowers for a tangy and crunchy treat.
A Final Word on Growing Nasturtiums
Growing nasturtiums is a rewarding experience that brings joy, beauty, and flavor to your garden. With their easy care and versatility, they’re a perfect choice for beginner gardeners.
Questions You May Have
1. When is the best time to plant nasturtium seeds?
The best time to plant nasturtium seeds is after the last frost in your area.
2. How long does it take for nasturtium seeds to germinate?
Nasturtium seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days.
3. Can I grow nasturtiums in containers?
Yes, nasturtiums grow well in containers. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and deep.
4. Are nasturtium flowers edible?
Yes, nasturtium flowers are edible and have a sweet, peppery flavor.
5. How do I prevent slugs and aphids from damaging my nasturtium plants?
To deter slugs, you can use diatomaceous earth or copper tape around your plants. To control aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or a strong spray of water.
