Nasturtiums: How to Plant, Grow, and Enjoy These Edible Flowers

Nasturtium is an easy-to-grow annual whose leaves and flowers are edible. Bright greenery and vibrant flowers suit containers or ground covers. Their pretty fragrance makes them good cut flowers. Nasturtiums are perfect for children's gardens—they grow easily and rapidly.

Planting Nasturtiums

• Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before last spring frost, or direct-sow.
• Plant in early spring in moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Partial shade reduces blooming.
• Nasturtiums prefer poorer soils and need no fertilizer (unless soil is extremely poor). Fertile soil yields fewer blooms.
• Plant seeds ½ inch deep, 10–12 inches apart. Seedlings appear in 7–10 days.

Care

• Water regularly but avoid overwatering.
• Deadhead faded flowers to prolong blooming.
• Container plants may need occasional trimming.

Pests and Diseases

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

Harvest and Storage

Save chick-pea-sized seeds for spring replanting! Let them dry on the vine; they'll fall off. Collect, brush off soil, dry, and store in a paper envelope in a cool, dark place.

Recommended Varieties

• Salmon Baby — pretty salmon-pink color.
• Variegatus — trailing type with red or orange flowers.
• Peach Melba — creamy yellow flowers with orange-red centers.

Wit & Wisdom

Nasturtium flowers symbolize patriotism. Discover more flower meanings.

Recipes

• Nasturtium and Shrimp Salad Appetizer
• Veal Loin with Nasturtiums

Cooking Notes

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