How to Plant Nasturtium Seeds: A StepbyStep Gardening Guide
How to Plant Nasturtium Seeds?
To plant nasturtium seeds, you can either sow them directly in the ground or in pots.
When sowing in the ground, make sure the soil is free of weeds and water the area before sowing.
Sow the seeds 1.5cm deep and 10cm apart.
Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to 30cm apart.
Nasturtium seeds can also be scattered around the garden.
They can be sown from March to May and will flower until the first frosts.
If you prefer to start them indoors, sow one seed per 9cm pot in a greenhouse or sunny windowsill and then plant outside in late spring.
When planting, make sure the crown of leaves is at soil level and water well.
Nasturtiums are easy to care for and need little maintenance.
They attract butterflies, which can deter caterpillars from brassica crops.
Nasturtium seeds can be harvested and stored for the next season.
Enjoy the peppery-tasting leaves, flowers, and pickled seed pods in your salads.
Key Points:
- Nasturtium seeds can be planted directly in the ground or in pots.
- When sowing in the ground, ensure soil is weed-free and watered.
- Plant seeds 1.5cm deep and 10cm apart.
- Thin seedlings to 30cm apart once they emerge.
- Nasturtium seeds can also be scattered around the garden.
- Plant in March to May and enjoy flowers until the first frosts.
Did You Know?
1. Nasturtium seeds were originally used as a substitute for capers in cooking due to their similar taste profile, earning them the nickname “poor man’s capers.”
2. In ancient times, nasturtium flowers were believed to have medicinal properties and were used to treat various ailments, such as respiratory infections and urinary tract infections.
3. Nasturtium seeds are not only edible but also packed with nutrients. They are a great source of vitamin C and can be added to salads or pickled for a tangy twist.
4. Nasturtium plants act as natural pest repellents in gardens. Their strong scent helps to deter aphids and other insects, making them an eco-friendly option for natural pest control.
5. The name “nasturtium” is derived from the Latin words “nasus tortus,” which translates to “twisted nose.” This name was given to the plant because of its peppery, pungent aroma that has the ability to make one wrinkle their nose.
Planting Nasturtium Seeds: Containers, Hanging Baskets, Or Borders
Nasturtiums, with their vibrant blooms and trailing vines, are a versatile plant that can be grown in various settings. Whether you have limited space in a container or prefer to adorn your borders with splashes of color, nasturtiums are an excellent choice for any garden. Their ability to thrive in different environments makes them a favorite amongst both experienced gardeners and amateurs alike.
When planting nasturtium seeds in containers:
- Select a suitable vessel that provides adequate drainage.
- Choose a container that is at least 30cm in diameter and fill it with a well-draining potting mix.
- Add a layer of gravel or broken pots at the bottom to enhance drainage further.
- Space the seeds around 10cm apart, planting them approximately 1.5cm deep.
- Water the seeds thoroughly after planting and ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
For those looking to add beauty to their hanging baskets:
- Select a basket that is deep enough to accommodate the plant’s trailing vines.
- Fill the basket with a peat-free multipurpose compost mixed with fine gravel or grit.
- This combination ensures proper drainage while providing the necessary nutrients for growth.
- Sow the seeds around 10cm apart, burying them approximately 1.5cm deep.
- Water the basket thoroughly after planting, allowing any excess water to drain away.
If you have borders that need some livening up:
- Nasturtiums can act as a stunning ground cover.
- They are particularly useful in areas where other plants struggle to thrive due to poor or compacted soil.
- Nasturtiums can help create a more welcoming environment by filling in the gaps and suppressing weed growth.
- Simply prepare the soil by removing any weeds and debris.
- Water the area before sowing the seeds, ensuring the soil is damp but not waterlogged.
- Plant the seeds around 10cm apart and bury them approximately 1.5cm deep.
- Regularly water the newly planted seeds until they establish themselves.
Nasturtiums As Ground Cover
One of the most advantageous qualities of nasturtiums is their ability to act as an excellent ground cover. The sprawling nature of their vines and leaves creates a dense mat that suppresses weed growth while providing a striking display of color. Nasturtiums effectively fill in bare patches of soil and protect against erosion, making them a practical choice for areas that require ground cover.
Apart from their practical attributes, nasturtiums as ground cover also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of your garden. The vibrant flowers and delicate green foliage create an enchanting carpet-like effect. Their low-growing nature makes them perfect for planting along pathways, under trees, or as edging for flower beds. The versatility of nasturtiums as ground cover ensures that they can be incorporated into any garden design, adding a touch of beauty while serving a valuable purpose.
Edible Flowers, Leaves, And Seeds
Nasturtiums offer more than just visual appeal – they also provide a culinary delight. Every part of the plant, from the flowers to the leaves and seeds, is edible. The vibrant flowers, in hues of orange, red, yellow, and sometimes even black, add a burst of color to salads, appetizers, and desserts. Their peppery taste imparts a unique flavor profile that can elevate an ordinary dish to extraordinary heights.
In addition to the flowers, the leaves of nasturtiums are also a culinary treat. The young leaves can be added to salads, lending their peppery notes for a delightful contrast. As the leaves mature, they become slightly bitter but can still be used in moderation to add depth of flavor to stews, soups, and sauces.
The seed pods of nasturtiums are often pickled and used as a substitute for capers. These pods possess a tangy and slightly spicy flavor that adds a burst of acidity to various dishes. Harvesting the ripe seeds and storing them in a cool, dry place will ensure you have a steady supply for future use.
- Nasturtiums offer visual appeal and culinary delight
- Every part of the plant is edible
- Flowers add vibrant colors to salads and desserts
- Peppery taste of flowers enhances dishes
- Young leaves provide peppery notes in salads
- Mature leaves add depth of flavor to stews, soups, and sauces
- Seed pods can be pickled as a substitute for capers
- Seed pods have a tangy and slightly spicy flavor
- Harvest ripe seeds for future use by storing them in a cool, dry place.
Easy To Grow From Seed: Ideal For Beginners And Children
Nasturtiums are perfect for gardening beginners or as a fun project for children. They are easy to grow from seed, making them an excellent choice for beginners. With their rapid growth, charming flowers, and low maintenance requirements, growing nasturtiums is a rewarding gardening experience.
To start growing nasturtiums from seed, gather the following materials:
- Well-draining soil mix or compost
- Planting tray or pots
- Nasturtium seeds
Here are the steps to grow nasturtiums:
1. Sow the seeds about 1.5cm deep, spacing them approximately 10cm apart.
2. Water the seeds gently but thoroughly, ensuring that the soil remains consistently moist.
3. Place the tray or pots in a sunny area or windowsill, providing the seeds with at least half a day of sunshine for optimal growth.
Once the seedlings appear, thin them out to create enough space for each plant to grow. Keep the healthiest and most robust seedlings, ensuring they are spaced approximately 30cm apart. This allows each plant to receive the necessary nutrients and sunlight, promoting vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
Thriving On Free-Draining, Poor Soils
Nasturtiums are resilient and adaptable plants that can thrive in a range of soil conditions. They are well-suited to poor soils, making them an excellent choice for gardeners dealing with challenging or infertile areas. In fact, nasturtiums often prefer poor or free-draining soil, as they tend to flourish in these conditions.
When planting nasturtiums, it is important to ensure that the soil is loose and free-draining. This allows excess water to drain away and prevents the roots from becoming waterlogged. Nasturtiums are sensitive to water accumulation around their root systems and can develop root rot if the soil retains too much moisture. By providing them with free-draining soil, you create an environment where these resilient plants can thrive.
It’s worth noting that nasturtiums are relatively drought-tolerant. Once established, they rarely require additional watering, especially when planted in the ground. However, for container-grown nasturtiums, it is crucial to keep the compost evenly moist. Regularly water the containers and allow any excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Sunshine Requirements For Nasturtium Growth
Sunshine plays a vital role in the growth and success of nasturtiums. These plants require at least half a day of direct sunlight to thrive and produce an abundance of flowers. When selecting a planting location, ensure it receives a minimum of six hours of sunlight each day.
The sunlight fuels the photosynthetic process, enabling the plants to convert energy into essential nutrients. Insufficient sunlight can result in weak and leggy growth, a decrease in flower production, and reduced overall vigor. To ensure your nasturtiums receive adequate sunlight, place them in a location where they will receive the most direct sunlight possible. This could be a south-facing garden border, a sunny patio, or a windowsill with unobstructed light penetration.
By providing the necessary sunlight, you will be rewarded with healthy, vibrant nasturtium plants that thrive and bloom abundantly.
- With their versatile growing options, vibrant flowers, and edible qualities, nasturtiums are a delightful addition to any garden.
- Their adaptability and low maintenance requirements make them ideal for beginner gardeners and children alike.
- Whether you choose to plant them in containers, hanging baskets, or borders, these charming plants will bring joy and beauty to your outdoor space.
So, why not give nasturtiums a try and enjoy the rewards they have to offer?
Frequently Asked Questions
Do nasturtium seeds need to be soaked before planting?
Yes, nasturtium seeds need to be soaked before planting as they have a higher germination rate when soaked for 24 hours in warm water. This process helps to soften the seed coat and improve water absorption, aiding in the germination process. After soaking, the seeds should be planted immediately and covered with 1/4 inch of fine soil. With an optimum soil temperature of 70 degrees F, the seeds are expected to germinate within 10 to 14 days.
How long do nasturtiums take to grow from seed?
Nasturtiums, when grown from seed, typically take around 10 to 12 days to germinate. This process can be expedited by placing the seeds 1″ deep in individual pots and providing them with adequate lighting, either through artificial lights or in a well-lit area like a south-facing window. Once the seedlings develop a few sets of leaves, it is recommended to remove the weaker seedling, ensuring only one plant per pot for optimal growth.
Are nasturtium seeds easy to grow?
Absolutely, nasturtium seeds are incredibly easy to grow! This hardworking plant is known for its quick growth and generous floral displays, making it a favorite among gardeners. Adding to its appeal, nasturtium has edible leaves and flowers that are a great addition to salads. Whether you have a spacious garden or limited space, this versatile plant can thrive in a variety of environments.
Do nasturtiums need full sun?
Nasturtiums thrive in abundant sunlight and flourish best when planted in well-drained soil. While they can tolerate partial shade, their blooming potential may be compromised in such conditions. Therefore, to witness the vibrant and abundant blossoms of nasturtiums, it is recommended to provide them with full sun exposure.