Nasturtium is an easy-to-grow annual whose leaves and flowers are edible. These plants with their bright greenery and vibrant flowers are good for containers or ground covers. Their pretty fragrance also makes them a good choice for cut flowers. Nasturtiums are perfect to grow with children because they grow so easily and rapidly.

Planting

• You can start the seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last spring frost.
• Plant seeds in early spring in moist, well-drained soil in full sun. They can grow in partial shade, but they will not bloom as well.
• Nasturtiums prefer poorer soils and they do not need fertilizers (unless your soil is extremely poor). Fertile soil will produce fewer blooms.
• Plant the seeds about half an inch deep and 10 to 12 inches apart. Plants should appear in 7 to 10 days.

Care

• Water regularly throughout the growing season, but be careful not to over-water your plants.
• Cutting off the faded/dead flowers will prolong blooming.
• If you’re growing nasturtiums in containers, they may need to be trimmed back occasionally over the growing season.

Pests/Diseases

• Flea beetles
• Caterpillars
• Aphids
• Slugs
• Whiteflies
• Viruses

Harvest/Storage

Save the nasturtium chick-pea-size seeds and replant in the spring! Let them dry out on the vine; they’ll fall off. Collect them, brush off the soil, dry them, and store them in a paper envelope in a cool and dark place.

Recommended Varieties

• Salmon Baby, to add a pretty salmon-pink color to your garden.
• Variegatus, which is a trailing type with red or orange flowers.
• Peach Melba, which is derived from nasturtiums and has creamy yellow flowers with orange-red centers.

Wit & Wisdom

Nasturtium flowers are said to symbolize patriotism. Find out more flower meanings here.

Recipes

• Nasturtium and Shrimp Salad Appetizer
• Veal Loin with Nasturtiums

Cooking Notes

The entire nasturtium plant is edible and makes for a beautiful garnish on any summer meal.