Nasturtium is an easy-to-grow, edible annual flower with beautiful, vibrant flowers and round, lily-pad-like leaves. Its scientific name is Tropaeolum majus, and it is native to South America. Nasturtiums are available in a range of colours including orange, yellow, and red, and they bloom in summer and fall. They are also known for their peppery taste, which makes them a great addition to salads and other dishes. Nasturtiums can be grown in the ground or in containers, and they are a great choice for beginner gardeners as they are low-maintenance and have few pest problems.
How to Grow Nasturtium Organically
- Choose a planting site: Nasturtiums prefer a sunny location with well-draining soil. They can tolerate some shade, but will not flower as much.
- Start seeds or buy transplants: You can either start nasturtiums from seed indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date, or purchase established plants from a garden centre.
- Plant the seeds or transplants: If starting from seed, plant the seeds about 1/2 inch deep in potting soil and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. If planting transplants, dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and place the plant in the hole. Cover with soil and gently press down.
- Water the plants: Nasturtiums prefer to be kept moist, so water deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions.
- Fertilize the plants: Nasturtiums do not require much fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, once a month during the growing season.
- Provide support: Some nasturtiums can grow up to 6 feet long, so they may need support such as a trellis or netting to prevent them from sprawling.
- Deadhead the plants: Removing spent flowers will encourage more blooms to form.
- Watch for pests and diseases: Nasturtiums can attract aphids and other insects, so be sure to keep an eye on your plants and treat any issues as they arise.
With these simple steps, you can grow beautiful and vibrant nasturtium plants that will add colour and flavour to your garden.
