Thriving with Tropaeolum: The Complete Nasturtium Guide

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If you’re on the hunt for a plant that’s as easy to grow as it is vibrant, look no further than the Nasturtium (Tropaeolum). With its stunning orange, yellow, and red blooms, this quick-growing annual is perfect for anyone looking to add a splash of color to their garden or patio. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from planting to care, so you can grow these beautiful flowers with confidence.

Benefits of Growing Your Own Nasturtium (Tropaeolum)


Benefits of growing Nasturtium (Tropaeolum) at home:

  • Edible flowers and leaves with a peppery flavor
  • Attractive, colorful blooms that brighten up gardens and patio containers
  • Easy to grow and maintain, even for beginners
  • Repels some harmful insects while attracting beneficial ones
  • Can be used in companion planting to deter pests and promote healthy soil
  • Provides nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies
  • Contains compounds that have potential health benefits, including antioxidant and antimicrobial properties

General Information About Nasturtium (Tropaeolum)

Plant Family: Tropaeolaceae
Plant Latin Name: Tropaeolum majus

Plant Variations Available

Nasturtiums, scientifically known as Tropaeolum, are a popular garden plant cultivated for their bright and showy flowers. These plants come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them a favorite for gardeners who love to mix and match.

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There are over 80 different species of nasturtiums, with variations ranging from trailing and climbing vines to compact mounds of foliage. The flowers can be round, flat, or trumpet-shaped and range in color from yellow, orange, and red to pink, cream, and bi-colored. Additionally, some nasturtiums have variegated foliage, adding an interesting texture to the garden.

One particularly popular variety of nasturtium is the “Alaska” series, which features abundant double flowers in shades of cream, orange, and red. Another favorite is the climbing “Moonlight” nasturtium, with bright yellow blooms that trail up trellises and walls.

In addition to their ornamental value, nasturtiums are also edible and pack a surprising punch of flavor. Both the leaves and flowers are edible, with a slightly peppery taste similar to watercress. Nasturtiums can also be used in salads, as a garnish, or even as a substitute for capers.

Overall, nasturtiums are a versatile and beautiful addition to any garden. With their wide range of variations and edible qualities, they are truly a delight for gardeners and foodies alike.

Germinating Nasturtium (Tropaeolum)

Preferred Zones

If you’re looking for a bright and cheerful addition to your outdoor garden, the Nasturtium (Tropaeolum) is an excellent choice. These beautiful flowers are not only visually stunning, but also easy to grow and maintain. Here are the best zones for outdoor growing of Nasturtium:

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Zone 2- Nasturtiums can withstand colder climates and harsher winters, making Zone 2 a great place to grow them. However, keep in mind that Nasturtiums prefer slightly cooler temperatures, so make sure to not expose them to extreme heat.

Zone 5- This zone provides a moderate climate with warm summers and cold winters, which is perfect for growing Nasturtiums. In addition, this zone usually has a long growing season, allowing you to enjoy these gorgeous flowers for longer.

Zone 8- With a warm, sunny climate, Zone 8 is a great option for growing Nasturtiums. These plants thrive in areas with direct sunlight, and Zone 8’s temperatures are conducive to Nasturtium growth.

Ultimately, Nasturtiums are relatively easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of climates. Make sure to provide plenty of sunlight, and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Just a little bit of maintenance will result in a beautiful and vibrant garden addition that’s sure to bring joy to your backyard.

Sowing Instructions

If you’re a novice gardener looking to add some color and beauty to your outdoor space, consider growing Nasturtium (Tropaeolum). This flowering plant is not only easy to grow, but it also comes in a variety of vibrant colors and can be enjoyed in various ways, from adding it to your salad to garnishing your favorite dish. Here are some useful tips to help you get started with sowing your Nasturtium seeds:

1. Choose the Right Soil: Nasturtiums thrive in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6-7.5 is ideal for these plants. If the soil where you intend to sow your seeds isn’t suitable, amend it with some compost or well-rotted manure to improve its structure.

2. Decide the Planting Time: Nasturtiums are annual plants that thrive in warmer weather, and they are typically sown in the spring – usually around April or May (depending on your local climate). Planting them too early may result in seedlings that are unable to withstand the cold, while planting them too late might produce unproductive plants that are more vulnerable to pests and disease.

3. Sow Your Seeds: When it comes to sowing, it’s important to know that nasturtium seeds will sprout better if they have been soaked overnight in water before planting. Once you’ve done that, plant the seeds about 1 inch deep, spacing them about 8-12 inches apart.

4. Water Gently: After planting, moisten the bed gently with water. Overwatering can lead to damage to the seeds, so don’t drown them. Give them just enough moisture for optimal growth.

5. Regular Care and Maintenance: Nasturtiums are fairly low maintenance, but they do require care and attention to reach their full potential. Make sure to remove any weeds that grow around them, water them regularly, and provide support as needed, especially when they start to climb.

In conclusion, Nasturtiums provide an easy and colorful way to brighten up any garden. Sowing them is fairly straightforward and requires just a bit of care and attention. With the right timing and planting conditions, you should be able to enjoy a beautiful garden full of gorgeous and flavorful Nasturtium blooms!

Preparation Advice

If you’re looking to grow beautiful and vibrant nasturtiums, you’ll be happy to know that they are relatively easy to care for! Here are some tips on the best methods and equipment you’ll need to ensure a successful growth:

1. Soil: The quality of soil you use is very important when it comes to growing nasturtiums. These beautiful plants prefer a well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. Ensure that the pH level of the soil is between 6.0-7.0 for optimal growth conditions.

2. Sunlight: Nasturtiums thrive in full sunlight, so ensure that they have access to at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. If your garden doesn’t provide enough sunlight, try using artificial grow lights to supplement your plants.

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3. Water: While these plants don’t require a lot of water, consistent watering is crucial to their growth. Ensure that you water them regularly, maintaining a level of moisture, but not waterlogged soil.

4. Fertilizer: Nasturtiums, being hungry plants, require a steady supply of nutrients to help support their growth. In addition to organic matter, supplementing them with liquid fertilizer is important for nourishing them.

5. Pruning: One key to growing robust and vibrant nasturtiums is managing the plant’s growth throughout the growing season. They need to be pruned frequently to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy.

Equipment-wise, a few things will make your growing experience a lot easier. A hose pipe, sprayer, and gardening gloves will be helpful for watering, spraying, and pruning. If you’re starting with growing seeds, try using seed trays and peat pellets to give your plants a healthy start. Finally, a trellis or some support for climbing varieties will help keep them upright and maximize space.

By following these tips and utilizing the right equipment, you’ll be well on your way to growing beautiful and healthy nasturtiums in your garden. The burst of color they provide make them an excellent addition to any landscape.

Germination Tools and Equipment

When it comes to germinating healthy nasturtium (Tropaeolum), having the right tools and equipment can make all the difference in achieving a successful growth. So, let’s dive into what you’ll need to get started:

1. High-Quality Seeds – The first and most important factor in successfully germinating nasturtium is to start with the best quality seeds possible. Choose seeds from a reputable vendor to ensure they’re fresh, viable, and disease-free.

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2. Seedling Trays – Seedling trays provide an ideal environment for germinating seeds. Look for trays with good drainage holes, as you don’t want your seedlings to be sitting in water.

3. Seed Starting Mix – Seed starting mix is a specially formulated soil mix that provides the ideal growing conditions for seeds. It’s important to use a light, fluffy mix that retains moisture evenly, but doesn’t become waterlogged.

4. Heating Pad – Nasturtium seeds require warm temperatures to germinate, so a heating pad or mat can help to maintain a consistent temperature for successful germination.

5. Grow lights – Nasturtium seeds also require a lot of light to germinate, so it’s important to have some sort of grow light setup to provide adequate light. Consider using fluorescent or LED grow lights for best results.

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6. Spray Bottle – You’ll need a spray bottle to keep your seed-starting mix moist without overwatering the seeds. It’s important to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

7. Plant Markers – Keeping track of your seedlings is crucial for success, so invest in some plant markers to label your trays and keep track of which seeds are growing where.

With these tools and equipment in hand, you’ll be well on your way to successfully germinating healthy and vibrant nasturtium seeds. Remember to follow the proper instructions and provide the optimal growing conditions, and soon you’ll be enjoying beautiful and tasty nasturtiums in your garden or on your plate!

Growing Nasturtium (Tropaeolum)


Light Requirements

When it comes to growing Nasturtium plants (Tropaeolum), lighting is a crucial component to consider. These vibrant and colorful flowers can thrive in a range of lighting conditions, but to truly get the best results from your Nasturtium plants, it’s important to understand their specific lighting needs.

For starters, Nasturtium plants prefer bright, sunny conditions. As such, they do best when exposed to at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. In fact, the more sunlight they receive, the bigger and brighter their blooms will be. So if you’re growing Nasturtium plants indoors, make sure to place them near a south-facing window where they can soak up as much sunshine as possible.

That being said, Nasturtium plants can also tolerate partial shade, which makes them a great option for gardeners who don’t have access to a lot of direct sunlight. If you’re growing Nasturtiums outdoors, try placing them in an area that receives morning sun but is shaded during the hottest hours of the day.

In terms of artificial lighting, Nasturtium plants can be grown under fluorescent light bulbs or LED grow lights. These types of lights provide a full spectrum of light that mimics natural sunlight, which can be ideal for indoor gardening. Just make sure to keep the lights on for at least 12 hours a day to ensure your Nasturtiums get the light they need to thrive.

One thing to keep in mind when it comes to lighting for Nasturtium plants is that too much direct sunlight or too little can lead to problems. Too much sun can cause the leaves to wilt and burn, while too little can stunt growth and cause the flowers to be less vibrant. So it’s important to find the right balance when it comes to lighting for your Nasturtium plants.

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In conclusion, Nasturtium plants require plenty of bright sunlight to grow healthy and strong. Whether you’re growing them indoors or outdoors, make sure they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day, or supplement with artificial light if needed. Finding the right balance of light will help ensure your Nasturtiums produce vibrant, colorful blooms all season long.

Temperature Requirements

Nasturtiums, also known by their scientific name Tropaeolum, are a genus of flowering plants that can grow in a range of temperatures. However, to grow healthy and produce abundant blooms, the ideal temperature would be between 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

These beautiful and colorful plants are native to South and Central America and grow best in locations with partial to full sunlight. If grown in too high of a temperature, they can become stressed and not produce as many flowers.

If you are planning to grow Nasturtiums as a summer annual, it is best to plant them in the early spring when the temperatures are still relatively cool. However, if you are growing them indoors for year-round enjoyment, make sure to keep them in an area where the temperature does not exceed 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Nasturtiums are also quite forgiving plants and can tolerate variations in temperature as long as they are not extreme. So, don’t worry too much if the temperature fluctuates a bit throughout the day, as they will still likely thrive as long as they are in their optimal temperature range.

In summary, Nasturtiums require a cool to moderate temperature to grow healthy and produce abundant blooms. With the proper care and temperature, you can enjoy the beauty of these charming flowering plants year-round.

My Favorite Tools For Growing Nasturtium (Tropaeolum)

If you’re looking to care for and maintain healthy Nasturtium plants, then you’re in luck! These stunning flowering plants can add a touch of color and vibrancy to any garden, balcony or hanging basket. To help you get started, here are some of the best tools and equipment you’ll need to keep your Nasturtiums looking their best.

1. High-quality Potting Soil: To ensure that your Nasturtiums get the best nutrition and support, it’s important to invest in high-quality potting soil. Opt for a soil that’s light, well-draining, and nutrient-rich.

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2. Fertilizer: Nasturtiums are heavy feeders; therefore, it’s essential to give them regular doses of fertilizer. Look for a fertilizer that’s high in phosphorus and potassium, which will help your plants flower abundantly and resist diseases.

3. Pruning Shears: Regular pruning can help your Nasturtiums stay in shape and avoid becoming overgrown. Invest in a good pair of pruning shears to make sure you’re cutting cleanly.

4. Watering Can: Nasturtiums prefer soil that’s consistently moist, so it’s important to water them regularly. Purchase a watering can with a long spout so that you can reach every corner of your pots or hanging baskets.

5. Sunscreen: Nasturtiums love the sun, but too much of it can be damaging. To protect your plants from the harsh rays, consider purchasing a sunscreen spray specifically designed for plants.

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6. Insecticide: Unfortunately, Nasturtiums are also susceptible to pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Make sure you have an insecticide handy so that you can treat any infestations quickly and effectively.

By investing in these essential tools and equipment, you’ll be well-equipped to care for and maintain your beautiful Nasturtium plants. With a little bit of time and attention, your Nasturtiums will thrive and bring joy to your space for years to come!

Preferred Soil Type

When it comes to the soil requirements for growing healthy Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum), there are a few key things you should keep in mind. First and foremost, Nasturtiums thrive in well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. This means that it’s important to choose a soil mix that will allow excess water to drain away from the roots, preventing them from becoming waterlogged and potentially rotting.

Another important factor to consider is soil pH. Nasturtiums prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. If your soil is too alkaline, you can adjust it by adding sulfur or iron sulfate. If it’s too acidic, you can raise the pH by adding lime or wood ash.

In terms of soil type, Nasturtiums prefer a sandy loam soil that is rich in organic matter. This type of soil allows for good drainage and aeration, while also providing the nutrients that these plants need to thrive.

When planting Nasturtium seeds, it’s important to provide them with a good start by planting them in soil that has been well-prepared. This means removing any rocks, roots, or other debris, and mixing compost or other organic matter into the soil to improve its texture and fertility.

Finally, it’s worth noting that Nasturtiums are relatively easy to care for and don’t typically require a lot of fertilization. However, if you do choose to fertilize them, it’s best to use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer that is specifically formulated for flowering plants.

By keeping these soil requirements in mind, you can help ensure that your Nasturtiums grow strong and healthy, producing beautiful and vibrant blooms throughout the growing season.

Watering Requirements

If you’re looking to add a pop of color to your garden or balcony, Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum) might be the plant for you! These vibrant and unique flowers need some specific love and care, including proper watering.

First and foremost, it’s important to know that Nasturtiums prefer moist but well-draining soil. This means that you don’t want to over-water the plant, as this may lead to root rot and other issues. On the other hand, you don’t want the soil to be too dry either.

So, how do you strike that perfect balance? The best way to water Nasturtiums is to wait until the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and then give the plant a thorough watering. Depending on the weather, this could be every 2-3 days or every week. It’s important to note that Nasturtiums are quite resilient and can handle some slight drought, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

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One tip to keep in mind is to be mindful of where you’re watering the plant. It’s best to avoid getting the leaves and flowers wet, as this can lead to issues like fungal diseases. Instead, aim to water the soil around the base of the plant.

Another thing to consider is the temperature and humidity in your area. If you live in a particularly hot or dry climate, you may need to water your Nasturtiums more frequently. On the other hand, if you’re dealing with cooler temperatures or high humidity, you may be able to get away with watering less often.

Ultimately, the key to successfully watering Nasturtiums (and any plant, really) is to pay attention to the plant and its environment. Keep an eye on the soil, the leaves, and the flowers, and adjust your watering as needed. With a little bit of TLC, your Nasturtiums will thrive and brighten up your outdoor space in no time!

What You Need To Know About Fertilizing Nasturtium (Tropaeolum)

If you’re looking to grow healthy nasturtium plants, then ensuring the right fertilizing requirements is key. Nasturtiums are known for their vibrant flowers and peppery leaves, and they’re a popular choice for gardens and window boxes alike. Here’s what you need to know about fertilizing your nasturtiums:

Firstly, it’s important to understand what type of soil and environment this plant prefers. Nasturtiums thrive in fertile, well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. They need plenty of sunlight (at least six hours a day), but they also appreciate some shade during the hottest parts of the day.

When it comes to fertilizing, the good news is that nasturtiums don’t typically require a lot of extra nutrients. In fact, too much fertilizer can actually harm the plant and cause it to produce more leaves than flowers. In general, you’ll only need to fertilize your nasturtiums once or twice per growing season.

The best type of fertilizer for nasturtiums is a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium ( N-P-K) . You can find these fertilizers at any garden center or online store. Avoid using fertilizers with high levels of nitrogen, as this can encourage leaf growth over flower production.

Once you have your all-purpose fertilizer, apply it to your nasturtiums according to the package directions. In general, you’ll need to mix a small amount of fertilizer in with the soil around the base of the plant. You can also use a liquid fertilizer that you spray directly onto the leaves and stems of the plant.

It’s important to remember that Nasturtiums are sensitive to overfertilization, so it’s better to under-fertilize than overdo it. Overfertilizing can cause the plant to become stressed and more susceptible to disease and pests.

Finally, remember to water your nasturtiums properly. Too much or too little water can affect the plant’s ability to absorb the nutrients in the soil, so be sure to water consistently and only when the soil is dry to the touch.

By taking good care of your nasturtiums and providing them with the right fertilizing requirements, you can enjoy a beautiful and healthy garden full of these lovely plants. Good luck!

My Favorite Fertilizers For Nasturtium (Tropaeolum)

Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum) are stunning and vibrant plants that bring brilliant colors to any garden or landscape. To ensure that they grow healthy and produce beautiful blooms, proper fertilization is crucial. Here are some of the best fertilizers that you can use for nourishing your Nasturtiums.

1. Organic Fertilizers – Nasturtiums thrive on organic fertilizers that are derived from natural sources such as bone meal, blood meal, and fish emulsion. These fertilizers are rich in nutrients and minerals that aid in the plant’s growth and development. Use a balanced blend of organic fertilizers to avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to burnt roots.

2. Slow-release Fertilizers – Another effective fertilizer for Nasturtiums is slow-release fertilizers. These fertilizers gradually release nutrients into the soil, providing a steady supply of nourishment to the plants over a more extended period. Slow-release fertilizers come in different forms, including granules or pellets, and they are easy to apply.

3. Liquid Fertilizers – Liquid fertilizers are an excellent choice for Nasturtiums that grow in containers or hanging baskets. These fertilizers are easy to apply and absorb quickly into the plant’s root system, providing immediate nourishment. They are available in various forms, including powder, granules, and liquids.

4. Compost – Compost is a natural and free fertilizer that can be used to nourish Nasturtiums. It is rich in nutrients and minerals that boost plants’ growth and health. Compost can be made from kitchen scraps, lawn clippings, leaves, and other organic materials. Apply compost around the base of the plant or mix it into the soil.

In conclusion, Nasturtiums require adequate fertilization to thrive and produce stunning blooms. Whether you opt for organic fertilizers, slow-release fertilizers, liquid fertilizers, or compost, ensure that you follow the application instructions to avoid over-fertilizing your plants. With the right fertilizers, your Nasturtiums will be the envy of every gardener!

Harvesting Nasturtium (Tropaeolum)

Time To Maturity

The Nasturtium, also known as Tropaeolum, is a beautiful flowering plant that originates from South America. If you’re wondering about the time it takes for this plant to go from sprouting to maturity, then you’re in the right place.

The good news is that the Nasturtium is a relatively fast-growing plant that can reach maturity in just a few short months. On average, it takes around 8-12 weeks for the plant to sprout, and within 4-6 weeks, you should start to see some beautiful flowers forming.

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However, it’s worth bearing in mind that the time it takes for the Nasturtium to mature can vary depending on a number of factors. The most important factor is the temperature and weather conditions in your local area. If the weather is too cold, then the plant may take longer to grow, while if it is too hot, the plant may become too dry and struggle to grow at all.

Another important factor to consider is the type of soil you use, as well as how often you water the plant. Nasturtiums prefer well-draining soil that is kept slightly moist, but not waterlogged. If you provide the plant with the right conditions, then you can expect it to reach maturity within 12-14 weeks, which is relatively quick for a flower.

So, in summary, the Nasturtium (Tropaeolum) is a fast-growing plant that can reach maturity within 8-12 weeks from sprouting. However, this timeframe can be affected by factors such as weather conditions, soil type, and watering frequency. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy beautiful Nasturtium flowers in just a few short months.

Harvest Instructions

Harvesting Nasturtium (Tropaeolum)

Nasturtiums are a beautiful plant that not only adds color and beauty to gardens, but also serves as a tasty addition to salads and other dishes. These plants are easy to grow and harvest, and here’s how you can do it in a few simple steps:

Step One: Find the Right Time to Harvest

The best time to harvest nasturtiums is when the flowers are fully bloomed and colorful. The seeds can be harvested when the flowers start to wilt and fall off the plant.

Step Two: Prepare for Harvesting

Make sure you have a basket, a pair of scissors (or pruning shears) and gloves to protect your hands. Nasturtiums have trailing stems, so harvesting nasturtiums requires a gentle touch to avoid damaging the plant.

Step Three: Harvesting Nasturtium Flowers

The flowers of nasturtium are the most commonly harvested parts of the plant. Simply cut the stem of the flower using scissors or pruning shears, leaving a few inches of stem attached to the flower. Be careful not to damage the plant when cutting, and avoid cutting too many flowers from a single plant to ensure its continued growth and overall health.

Step Four: Harvesting the Seeds

Nasturtium seeds are also edible and have a peppery taste. To harvest the seeds, wait until the flowers start to wilt and fall off the plant. Then, collect the seed pods that have formed along the stem. The pods will be green at first but will turn brown and harden as they dry out. Once the pods are brown and dry, gently remove them from the stem and store them in a cool and dry place.

Final Thoughts

Harvesting nasturtiums is a simple process that requires minimal effort, yet yields plentiful rewards. You can enjoy the beautiful flowers in your garden or use them in salads, while the seeds can be used to add an extra zing to your dishes. Follow these steps, and you’ll be able to enjoy these wonderful plants for a long time.

My Favorite Tools For Harvest Time

Ah, the delightful and versatile nasturtium! From its bold, colorful blooms to its peppery leaves and seeds, this plant has been a beloved garden staple for centuries. But when it comes time to harvest all that tasty goodness, what tools and equipment do you need to ensure a successful, stress-free experience? Here are a few of our top picks:

1. Garden shears – Nasturtium stems can be quite tough, so a sturdy pair of garden shears is a must for cleanly snipping them off at the base. Look for a pair with sharp, curved blades and ergonomic handles for comfort and ease of use.

2. Harvest basket or tray – Once you’ve snipped your nasturtiums, you’ll need a place to store them as you work. A basket or tray with high sides and plenty of room will keep your harvest from getting crushed or lost among your other equipment.

3. Gloves – Nasturtium plants are known for their ability to attract aphids, so wearing gloves while harvesting can help protect your hands from these pesky pests. Plus, gloves can provide extra grip and dexterity when using your shears.

4. Storage containers – After you’ve harvested your nasturtiums, you’ll want to store them in a place where they’ll stay fresh and dry until you’re ready to use them. Small, airtight containers like glass jars or plastic bags can work well, and can even be labeled with the date and type of harvest for easy organization.

5. Optional: harvesting scissors – If you’re planning to harvest only the leaves or flowers of your nasturtiums, a pair of small, sharp harvesting scissors might be a better option than garden shears. These can allow for more precision and control when cutting delicate parts of the plant.

With these tools and equipment at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to harvest your nasturtiums with ease and confidence. Happy picking!

End of Season & Overwintering


As fall sets in, it’s time to start thinking about end of season care for your beloved nasturtiums. These vibrant, eye-catching annual plants have likely delighted you with their bright, cheerful blooms all summer, and now it’s time to ensure they survive the colder months ahead.

The good news is that nasturtiums are pretty hardy plants and can handle a bit of chill. However, they do require some attention to ensure they stay healthy and strong until next year.

First and foremost, you’ll want to remove any dead or damaged foliage from the plants. This will help prevent any disease from spreading and also keeps pests from setting up shop in the decaying leaves.

Once the foliage is cleared away, you can then focus on prepping the soil. Nasturtiums prefer well-draining soil during the growing season but benefit from a more nutrient-rich soil to get them through the winter. You can add compost or a slow-release fertilizer to give them a boost.

If you live in a colder climate, you’ll want to mulch around the base of the plant to insulate the root system. A layer of shredded leaves, straw, or even pine needles will do the trick. This will help keep the soil temperature more consistent and prevent any freezing and thawing that can damage roots.

While nasturtiums can tolerate cooler temperatures, they don’t fare well in extreme cold snaps. If you live in an area where temperatures regularly drop below freezing, you may want to consider digging up the plants and overwintering them indoors. This involves carefully removing the plant from the soil, cutting it back, and repotting it in fresh potting soil. You can then place it in a bright, cool room (around 50-55 degrees F) and give it periodic waterings.

Overall, taking some time to properly care for your nasturtiums as the growing season comes to a close will ensure they have the best chance of making it through the winter and putting on another show next year.

Final Thoughts on Nasturtium (Tropaeolum)


Congratulations, you’ve made it to the end of our guide to germinating, growing, and harvesting Nasturtiums! We hope you found our tips and advice helpful and informative.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener looking to add something new to your plot, or a beginner just starting out with your first seed packet, Nasturtiums are a wonderful addition to any garden. Not only do they produce beautiful blooms in a range of gorgeous colors, but they’re also incredibly easy to grow and care for.

With just a little bit of patience, attention, and care, you can watch your Nasturtium seeds germinate into healthy plants with lush green foliage and vibrant, eye-catching flowers. And of course, once they’re ready, you can harvest their leaves and flowers to enjoy in a variety of dishes and herbal preparations.

As always, remember to follow our basic care tips for germinating, growing, and harvesting Nasturtiums, including proper soil preparation, watering, and fertilizing. Take note of any signs of disease or pest infestations, and act quickly to nip any problems in the bud.

With these simple guidelines in mind, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning display of beauty and a delicious bounty of edible flowers and leaves that you can enjoy all season long. So, what are you waiting for? Get planting those Nasturtiums today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Nasturtium (Tropaeolum)


1. What is the best way to start growing Nasturtiums?
A: Nasturtiums can be grown easily from seeds. They prefer well-draining soil and a sunny location. Seeds can be started indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last frost or outdoors after the last frost.

2. How often should I water my Nasturtiums?
A: Nasturtiums prefer moderately moist soil. Watering once a week is usually sufficient, but adjust watering frequency depending on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.

3. How do I care for my Nasturtiums as they grow?
A: Nasturtiums do not require much care other than watering and occasional fertilization. Deadheading (removing spent flowers) will encourage continuous blooming. Additionally, Nasturtiums are great companion plants, as they attract beneficial insects and can deter pests in the vegetable garden.

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