Botanical Name:
Tropaeolum Majus
A native to South America. It is well-known for its vivid blooms and tasty, peppery leaves.
Easy to cultivate, nasturtiums are frequently used as companion plants and in salads.
Do you want to learn how to grow Nasturtium seeds? If so, let’s dive in.
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Nasturtiums are vibrant, easy-to-grow plants that add a splash of colour to any garden. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of nasturtiums, their edibility, planting times in Australia, and tips on growing them successfully from seeds.
Nasturtiums come in a variety of types, each with unique characteristics:
Tropaeolum majus: The most common type, with trailing or climbing varieties.
Tropaeolum minus: A dwarf variety suitable for borders and containers.
Tropaeolum peregrinum: Known as the Canary Creeper, with unique yellow flowers.
Yes, nasturtiums are entirely edible. Their leaves, flowers, and seeds have a peppery flavour, similar to watercress. They make a colourful and spicy addition to salads, garnishes, and even pestos.
The best time to plant nasturtiums in Australia depends on your climate zone:
Nasturtiums thrive in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade. Plant them along borders, in containers, or as companion plants in your vegetable garden. They are particularly effective at deterring pests and attracting beneficial insects.
Growing nasturtiums from seeds is an easy and rewarding process. These vibrant plants add a splash of colour to your garden and serve as excellent companions to other plants by repelling pests. Here’s a step-by-step guide to growing nasturtiums from seeds.
Before planting, it’s beneficial to soak nasturtium seeds in warm water overnight. This helps soften the hard outer shell of the seeds, promoting faster and more successful germination.
1. Choose the Right Location:
2. Prepare the Soil:
3. Plant the Seeds:
4. Watering:
5. Thinning:
1. Mulching:
2. Feeding:
3. Pruning:
4. Pest Control:
Nasturtiums make excellent companion plants for many vegetables, including tomatoes, cucumbers, and cabbages. They can help deter pests and attract beneficial insects, enhancing the overall health and productivity of your garden.
By following these steps, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of nasturtiums in your garden. Their vibrant flowers and easy-going nature make them a favourite among gardeners of all levels.
When planning your garden, it’s important to consider plant compatibility. While nasturtiums are excellent companions for many vegetables and flowers, there are some plants that should not be grown alongside them. Understanding these incompatibilities can help you create a more harmonious and productive garden.
Nasturtiums and beans, particularly pole beans, should not be planted together. Both plants are vigorous growers and can compete for the same resources, such as nutrients, sunlight, and space. This competition can hinder the growth and productivity of both plants. Additionally, the dense foliage of nasturtiums can create a humid environment that favours fungal diseases, which can affect beans.
While nasturtiums are generally easy to grow and resilient, they can encounter a few problems. Understanding these issues and knowing how to address them will help ensure your nasturtiums remain healthy and vibrant.
One of the most common problems nasturtiums face is an infestation of black fly (aphids). These small, sap-sucking insects can cause significant damage to your plants if not controlled.
Appearance: Black flies are small, dark-coloured insects that cluster on the stems, leaves, and flower buds of the plant.
Symptoms: Infested plants may have curled or yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and a sticky residue (honeydew) on the foliage.
Natural Predators: Introduce natural predators like ladybirds and lacewings, which feed on aphids.
Soapy Water Spray: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with water and spray the affected plants. The soapy solution suffocates the aphids without harming the plants.
Neem Oil: Neem oil is an organic insecticide that can be sprayed on the plants to control aphid populations.
Companion Planting: Plant nasturtiums alongside aphid-repelling plants like garlic and chives.
1. Powdery Mildew:
2. Leaf Spot:
3. Slugs and Snails:
4. Root Rot:
By monitoring your nasturtiums regularly and addressing problems promptly, you can enjoy healthy, thriving plants throughout the growing season.
Nasturtiums are well-suited for container gardening. Choose a pot with good drainage, fill it with well-draining soil, and place it in a sunny spot. Water regularly but avoid overwatering, as nasturtiums prefer slightly dry conditions.
To train nasturtiums to climb, provide a trellis or support structure. Gently tie the stems to the support with garden twine, guiding them as they grow. Regularly check and adjust the ties to ensure the stems are not damaged.
Nasturtiums typically flower from late spring to early autumn. The exact timing can vary depending on the planting time and climate. Regular deadheading can encourage continuous blooming.
Do Nasturtiums Come Back Every Year
Do Nasturtiums Self Seed
Nasturtiums are annuals, but they often self-seed. If you leave the spent flowers on the plant, they will produce seeds that drop to the ground and germinate the following spring, ensuring a new generation of plants each year.
Growing nasturtiums from seeds is a rewarding experience that adds beauty and functionality to your garden. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy these delightful plants year after year.
Growing nasturtiums from seeds is a straightforward and rewarding endeavour that adds vibrant colour and edible beauty to any garden. By understanding the different types of nasturtiums, their planting requirements in Australia, and how to care for them, you can enjoy a bountiful display of flowers throughout the growing season.
Whether you're growing them in pots, training them to climb, or using them as companion plants in your vegetable garden, nasturtiums are versatile and beneficial. With their ability to self-seed, you can look forward to their cheerful blooms year after year, making them a delightful addition to your gardening repertoire.
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