Nasturtium Magic: Colorful Blooms and Edible Treats

Welcome to the world of nasturtiums, where vibrant colors meet delightful flavors. These charming plants are a gardener’s dream, offering a burst of beauty and a touch of culinary magic. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner, nasturtiums promise a journey filled with joy and discovery.

Why Nasturtiums Are a Gardener’s Favorite

Nasturtiums captivate the hearts of gardeners for many reasons. Their vivid, trumpet-shaped flowers add a splash of color to any garden, and their peppery leaves and blossoms are a unique addition to salads and dishes. I can’t think of an eaiser plant to grow! They’re resilient, and attract beneficial insects while deterring pests. You get the perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality.

The History and Origin of Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums, originally native to South America, have a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. Spanish conquistadors brought these vibrant plants to Europe, where they quickly became a favorite in both gardens and kitchens. The name “nasturtium” is derived from the Latin words “nasus tortus,” meaning “twisted nose,” a nod to their peppery, pungent taste.

Unique Characteristics of Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are unique in many ways. Their leaves are round with a central stem, resembling lily pads, and their flowers come in a variety of warm colors, including red, orange, and yellow. Both the leaves and flowers are edible, with a peppery flavor similar to watercress. They also have a sprawling growth habit, making them ideal for ground cover or trailing over containers and walls.

Varieties of Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a gardener’s delight, offering not just stunning blooms but also edible flowers and leaves with a peppery kick. Here are some of the best varieties to consider:

Alaska Mix
My personal favorite, “Alaska Mix,” is a true showstopper in the garden, dazzling with its vibrant rainbow of colors and striking variegated leaves. The unique foliage, splashed with green and white, adds an extra layer of visual interest, making this variety stand out even before the flowers bloom. Its versatile trailing vines can spill gracefully from hanging baskets, creating a cascade of color, or weave through garden beds as lush ground cover. Whether you’re looking to brighten up a small patio or fill in larger garden spaces, “Alaska Mix” offers both beauty and versatility, making it a must-have for any gardener.

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Tom Thumb
For those with limited space, “Tom Thumb” is a must-try, offering all the charm of nasturtiums in a petite, compact form. This dwarf variety is perfect for gardeners who want to enjoy the vibrant colors and playful personality of nasturtiums without needing a large garden space. Despite its small stature, “Tom Thumb” produces an impressive abundance of cheerful, multi-colored flowers that brighten up any spot they’re planted in. The blooms range from sunny yellows to fiery oranges and rich reds, creating a kaleidoscope of color that’s sure to catch the eye. Ideal for containers, window boxes, or small garden beds, “Tom Thumb” thrives in confined spaces, bringing a big impact with its lively display.

Black Velvet
Add a touch of drama to your garden with the striking “Black Velvet” nasturtium, a variety that exudes sophistication and mystery. Its deep burgundy flowers are so dark they almost appear black, creating a bold, eye-catching display that sets it apart from the more common bright hues of other nasturtium varieties. The velvety texture of the petals adds an element of luxury, making “Black Velvet” a perfect choice for those looking to create a moody, elegant garden space.  Its compact growth habit and rich, sultry tones make it an excellent choice for borders, containers, or as a striking focal point in flower beds. 

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Jewel Mix
Jewel Mix is a timeless favorite among gardeners, celebrated for its brilliant display of semi-double flowers that bloom in vivid reds, oranges, and yellows. Each blossom features multiple layers of petals, adding fullness and richness to the garden while capturing sunlight to create a vibrant, cheerful atmosphere. The bright, jewel-like tones bring a dynamic splash of color to any planting.

With its bushy, compact growth habit, “Jewel Mix” is incredibly versatile, ideal for edging paths, defining borders, or filling gaps in flower beds. Its dense, rounded form makes it perfect for adding color as an accent plant or enhancing mixed plantings. Easy to grow and low-maintenance, “Jewel Mix” thrives in various conditions and is suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners. Additionally, its edible flowers add a flavorful twist to salads and garnishes, making it a delightful addition both in the garden and the kitchen.

Empress of India
“Empress of India” is a heritage nasturtium variety that exudes elegance with its striking scarlet-red flowers set against dark, bluish-green foliage. This compact, non-trailing plant is perfect for smaller spaces, thriving in containers, window boxes, and garden beds where its upright, bushy form can shine. The rich, velvety blooms create a dramatic contrast with the foliage, adding a touch of royalty and timeless charm to any garden. Easy to care for and highly versatile, “Empress of India” is an excellent choice for adding bold color and sophistication to your outdoor space while also attracting pollinators.

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Peach Melba
“Peach Melba” brings a soft, serene beauty to the garden with its delicate, creamy yellow flowers accented by warm orange centers. This variety is cherished for its gentle, pastel palette, which adds a touch of elegance and refinement to any planting arrangement. The blooms have a graceful, understated charm that complements both vibrant and muted garden schemes, making “Peach Melba” a versatile choice for various settings. Beyond its visual appeal, this nasturtium variety is also prized for its edible flowers, which lend a subtle, peppery flavor and a splash of color to salads, desserts, and garnishes, making it a delightful addition to both the garden and the kitchen.

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Canary Creeper
“Canary Creeper” is a unique twist on the typical nasturtium, standing out with its charming climbing habit and delicate, fringed yellow flowers that evoke the image of canaries in flight. This variety is ideal for adding a touch of whimsy and vertical interest to your garden, gracefully draping over trellises, arbors, or fences. The flowers’ bright, sunny hue creates a cheerful, uplifting atmosphere, while their intricate, feather-like petals offer a fascinating texture and movement. Perfect for bringing life to vertical garden spaces, “Canary Creeper” not only enhances the visual appeal of your outdoor area but also creates a dynamic, cascading effect that draws the eye upward and adds a playful, enchanting element to your garden design.

Vesuvius
For a bold, fiery addition to your garden, “Vesuvius” is an exceptional choice. This variety stands out with its intense, deep orange-red blooms that burst with vibrant energy, creating a dramatic contrast against the plant’s compact, lush foliage. The vivid color and striking presence of “Vesuvius” make it an ideal selection for brightening up borders, adding a splash of warmth to garden beds, or making a statement in containers. Its robust and compact growth habit ensures that it maintains a tidy appearance while delivering a powerful visual impact. Whether used to create a focal point or to infuse a burst of color into mixed plantings, “Vesuvius” brings a dynamic and captivating flair to any garden space.

Yeti
Yeti provides a refreshing contrast in the garden with its pale, creamy-white flowers that exude a subtle, serene elegance. This trailing variety is particularly well-suited for hanging baskets or cascading over walls, where its delicate blooms can gently drape and create a soft, flowing effect. The light, airy color of “Yeti” adds a touch of sophistication and calmness to garden spaces, making it perfect for complementing more vibrant plants or creating a tranquil focal point. Its graceful, trailing growth habit enhances vertical and elevated garden areas, offering a refined and soothing visual appeal that brightens up any setting with understated charm.

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These nasturtium varieties each bring their own flair to the garden, offering a range of colors, sizes, and growth habits to suit any gardening style. Whether you’re looking for compact plants for a small space or trailing vines for a lush display, there’s a nasturtium out there waiting to brighten your garden and your plate!

Preparing to Grow Nasturtiums

Choosing the Perfect Location

These flowers thrive in sunny locations, although they can tolerate partial shade. Choose a spot that receives at least five hours of direct sunlight daily. They are versatile and can grow in garden beds, containers, and hanging baskets, adding versatility to their charm.

Ideal Soil Conditions for Nasturtiums

These plants are not fussy about soil quality. In fact, they prefer poorer soils, which encourage more blooms. Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot. If your soil is too rich, they will produce more leaves and fewer flowers, so avoid over-fertilizing.

When and How to Plant Nasturtium Seeds

Plant seeds after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. Sow seeds directly into the ground or containers about half an inch deep and 10 to 12 inches apart. Keep the soil moist until germination, which usually occurs within 7 to 10 days.

Starting Nasturtiums from Seeds

Sourcing High-Quality Seeds

To ensure a successful germination, start with high-quality seeds from reputable suppliers.  My favorite supplier is Eden Brothers. They have a huge selection of Nasturtium varieties. Look for seeds that are fresh and packaged properly. Heirloom varieties are particularly prized for their robust growth and beautiful blooms.

Preparing Seeds for Planting

Before planting, you can soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours. This helps to soften their hard outer coating and speeds up germination. After soaking, the seeds are ready to be planted directly into the soil.

Germination Tips for Success

For optimal germination, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Nasturtiums prefer cooler temperatures for germination, around 55 to 65°F (13 to 18°C). In warmer climates, consider starting seeds indoors and transplanting them outside once the weather cools down. For more information on starting seeds indoors, see my post “How to Start Flower Seeds Indoors“.

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Transplanting Nasturtium Seedlings

When to Transplant Seedlings

Transplant seedlings when they have developed at least two sets of true leaves and the risk of frost has passed. This is typically 2 to 4 weeks after germination, depending on your climate.

How to Transplant with Care

When transplanting, handle seedlings gently to avoid damaging the delicate roots. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and place the seedling in the hole, covering it with soil up to the base of the first leaves. Water well to help the plant settle into its new home.

Caring for Newly Transplanted Nasturtiums

Newly transplanted nasturtiums need a bit of extra care. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and provide shade if the sun is too intense. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Nurturing Your Nasturtiums

Watering: Keeping Your Plants Hydrated

Nasturtiums prefer consistent watering, especially during dry spells. Water the plants at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal issues. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.

Feeding Nasturtiums for Optimal Growth

While they thrive in poorer soils, occasional feeding with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer can boost flower production. Too much nitrogen encourages leaf growth at the expense of flowers, so feed sparingly.

Mulching: Benefits and Techniques

Mulching can help retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Use organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, and apply a 2 to 3-inch layer around the plants, keeping it away from the stems. The downside to mulching is the slugs will love it!

Dealing with Pests

Common Nasturtium Pests

Nasturtiums can attract pests such as aphids and caterpillars. While these pests can be a nuisance, they often draw them away from other plants, acting as a natural pest deterrent in the garden. Personally, I’ve never had much trouble with pests and what little I had was not enough to cause any damage.

Natural Pest Control Methods

Combat pests naturally by using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or companion planting with pest-repellent plants like marigolds and garlic. Encouraging beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, can also help keep pest populations in check.

Encouraging Bloom Production

Tips for Abundant Flowering

To encourage abundant flowering, provide nasturtiums with plenty of sunlight and avoid over-fertilizing. Regularly check for pests and remove any affected parts to keep the plants healthy and vigorous.

Deadheading Nasturtiums for Continuous Blooms

Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, encourages nasturtiums to produce more blooms. Pinch off faded flowers just above a set of leaves to keep the plants looking tidy and blooming profusely.

Supporting Climbing Varieties

Climbing nasturtiums can benefit from support structures like trellises, fences, or stakes. Gently guide the vines onto the support as they grow, ensuring they have ample space to spread and climb.

Harvesting and Using Nasturtium Seeds

Collecting and Saving Seeds

Allow seeds to dry on the plant until they are brown and easily detach. Collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place for planting next season or for sharing with fellow gardeners.

Pickling Nasturtium Seeds as Capers

Nasturtium seeds can be pickled and used as a caper substitute. Soak the seeds in brine, then pickle them in vinegar with spices. They add a zesty, peppery punch to dishes.

Other Creative Uses for Nasturtium Seeds

Beyond pickling, nasturtium seeds can be ground into a spice, added to bread dough, or used as a crunchy topping for salads. Their versatility makes them a valuable addition to any kitchen.

Companion Planting with Nasturtiums

Best Companion Plants for Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums make excellent companions for plants like tomatoes, cucumbers, and beans. They attract pollinators and beneficial insects while deterring pests that might otherwise harm these crops.

Designing a Nasturtium-Friendly Garden

You can integrate nasturtiums into your garden by planting them along borders, in vegetable patches, or in mixed flower beds. Their vibrant colors and sprawling growth habit make them a versatile and attractive addition.

Nasturtiums in Different Garden Settings

Growing Nasturtiums in Containers

Nasturtiums thrive in containers, making them perfect for small spaces or patios. Choose a well-draining pot, use quality potting soil, and ensure the plants receive adequate sunlight.

Nasturtiums in Hanging Baskets

For a stunning display, grow nasturtiums in hanging baskets. Their trailing vines and colorful blooms create a cascading effect, adding vertical interest to your garden space.

Integrating Nasturtiums into Vegetable Gardens

Plant nasturtiums among your vegetables to benefit from their pest-repellent properties. They also attract pollinators, which can help increase the yield of your crops.

Seasonal Care Tips

Springtime Nasturtium Care

In spring, start seeds indoors or directly sow them in the garden after the last frost. Provide protection from late frosts and ensure the soil is well-draining and enriched with compost.

Summer Maintenance 

During summer, water regularly and provide shade during the hottest part of the day if needed. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and monitor for pests.

Preparing Nasturtiums for Winter

In regions with cold winters, nasturtiums are typically grown as annuals. Collect seeds for next season and remove spent plants. In mild climates, protect plants from frost and mulch around the base to insulate the roots.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Yellowing Leaves and How to Fix Them

Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or pests. Check the soil moisture, adjust watering habits, and consider adding a balanced fertilizer to address the issue.

Poor Bloom Production Solutions

If your nasturtiums are not blooming well, ensure they are receiving enough sunlight and avoid over-fertilizing. Pinch off excess foliage to redirect the plant’s energy towards flower production.

Managing Overgrown Nasturtiums

Overgrown plants can be pruned back to maintain a tidy appearance. Cut back sprawling vines and remove any damaged or diseased foliage to promote healthy growth.

Conclusion

Nasturtiums are truly a gardener’s delight, blending beauty with utility in an unparalleled way. Whether you’re captivated by their vibrant hues or intrigued by their culinary versatility, growing nasturtiums promises to be both easy and a rewarding experience. Let these charming plants bring a touch of enchantment to your garden and kitchen. Happy gardening!

FAQ: All About Nasturtiums

What are nasturtiums and why are they so popular among gardeners?

Nasturtiums are vibrant, versatile plants known for their trumpet-shaped flowers and peppery leaves. They are favored for their bright colors, easy cultivation, and dual purpose as both ornamental and edible plants. Nasturtiums attract beneficial insects, deter pests, and are incredibly resilient, making them a top choice for gardeners of all levels.

What is the history and origin of nasturtiums?

Originally native to South America, nasturtiums were brought to Europe by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. Their name, derived from Latin “nasus tortus,” means “twisted nose,” referring to their distinctive, peppery taste.

What are some unique characteristics of nasturtiums?

Nasturtiums have round, lily pad-like leaves and come in a range of warm colors including red, orange, and yellow. Both their leaves and flowers are edible, offering a peppery flavor. They are known for their sprawling growth, making them ideal for ground cover or trailing over containers and walls.

What varieties of nasturtiums should I consider?

• Alaska Mix: Features vibrant colors and variegated leaves, ideal for hanging baskets or ground cover.
• Tom Thumb: A compact, dwarf variety perfect for small spaces and containers, with multi-colored flowers.
• Black Velvet: Offers dramatic deep burgundy flowers that almost appear black, adding sophistication to the garden.
• Jewel Mix: Known for its bright, semi-double flowers in reds, oranges, and yellows, with a bushy, compact growth habit.
• Empress of India: A heritage variety with striking scarlet-red flowers and dark foliage, great for smaller spaces.
• Peach Melba: Delicate, creamy-yellow flowers with orange centers, perfect for adding a soft, elegant touch.
• Canary Creeper: A climbing variety with fringed yellow flowers, ideal for vertical garden spaces.
• Vesuvius: Produces intense, deep orange-red blooms on a compact plant, making it a striking choice for borders and containers.
• Yeti: Features pale, creamy-white flowers that are excellent for hanging baskets or cascading over walls.

How do I choose the best location for growing nasturtiums?

Nasturtiums thrive in sunny spots but can tolerate partial shade. They need at least five hours of direct sunlight daily and are versatile enough for garden beds, containers, and hanging baskets.

What are the ideal soil conditions for nasturtiums?

Nasturtiums prefer well-draining soil and actually thrive in poorer soil conditions, which encourage more blooms. Avoid over-fertilizing as rich soil can lead to excessive leaf growth and fewer flowers.

When and how should I plant nasturtium seeds?

Plant nasturtium seeds after the last frost when the soil is warm. Sow seeds about half an inch deep and 10 to 12 inches apart. Keep the soil moist until germination, which usually occurs within 7 to 10 days.

How do I start nasturtiums from seeds?

Source high-quality seeds from reputable suppliers. Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting to aid germination. Keep the soil consistently moist and at cooler temperatures (55 to 65°F or 13 to 18°C) for best results.

When should I transplant nasturtium seedlings?

Transplant seedlings when they have at least two sets of true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, usually 2 to 4 weeks after germination. Handle seedlings gently and ensure they are planted at the same depth they were growing in their original container.

How should I care for newly transplanted nasturtiums?

Keep the soil moist but not soggy and provide shade if the sun is too intense. Mulching can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

What are the best practices for nurturing nasturtiums?

Water regularly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer sparingly, and mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature.

How do I manage common nasturtium pests?

Common pests include aphids and caterpillars. Use natural pest control methods such as insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encouraging beneficial insects like ladybugs can also help manage pests.

How can I encourage abundant flowering in nasturtiums?

Ensure they receive plenty of sunlight and avoid over-fertilizing. Regularly deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.

How should I harvest and use nasturtium seeds?

Allow seeds to dry on the plant until brown and easily detachable. Store them in a cool, dry place. Seeds can also be pickled or ground into spice, adding a zesty flavor to dishes.

What are the best companion plants for nasturtiums?

Nasturtiums pair well with tomatoes, cucumbers, and beans, attracting pollinators and deterring pests that might harm these crops.

How can I integrate nasturtiums into different garden settings?

Plant nasturtiums in containers, hanging baskets, or alongside vegetables to benefit from their pest-repellent properties and vibrant colors.

What seasonal care tips should I follow for nasturtiums?

Start seeds in spring or directly sow them after the last frost. In summer, water regularly and deadhead flowers. In winter, collect seeds and remove spent plants in colder climates; protect plants from frost in milder climates.

How do I address common issues with nasturtiums?

Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiencies. Adjust watering habits and add balanced fertilizer if needed. Overgrown plants can be pruned back to maintain a tidy appearance.