Nasturtium is a beautiful, easy to grow flower that is suitable for both garden beds and containers. Not only does it add a splash of colour to your garden, but it also has many medicinal and culinary uses. Growing nasturtium is a great way to add a unique touch to your garden and to enjoy the many benefits it offers. Here’s how to get started.
1. Choose the Right Location
The first step in growing nasturtium is to choose the right location. Nasturtium prefers a location that has full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. If you are growing nasturtium in containers, make sure to use a potting mix that is specifically designed for container gardening. If you are growing nasturtium in a garden bed, make sure to amend the soil with compost or other organic material to improve drainage.
2. Plant Seeds or Seedlings
Once you have chosen the right location, you can start planting. Nasturtium grows best from seed, but you can also purchase seedlings if you prefer. If you are planting seeds, sow them directly in the soil. Make sure to space the seeds at least 12 inches apart, as the plants can spread quickly. If you are planting seedlings, make sure to plant them at the same depth they were growing in their original container.
3. Water and Fertilize
Once the seeds or seedlings are in the ground, give them a good drink of water. Nasturtiums don’t need a lot of water, so make sure to only water when the soil is dry. You can also give the plants a boost with a light application of fertilizer once a month. A balanced fertilizer applied at half strength is ideal for nasturtium.
4. Deadhead
Once your nasturtium starts to bloom, you’ll need to deadhead the spent flowers. This will help the plant to focus its energy on producing more flowers instead of producing seeds. To deadhead, simply pinch off the faded flowers at the stem. This will encourage the plant to produce more blooms throughout the season.
5. Prune
Nasturtium can become unruly if left unchecked, so it’s important to prune the plants to keep them under control. Prune the plants back by up to one-third of their original size. This will help to keep them from taking over the garden bed or container. Pruning will also help to keep the plant looking neat and tidy.
6. Control Pests
Nasturtium can be susceptible to pest infestations, so it’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of insect damage. If you spot any pests, such as aphids or whiteflies, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of them. Make sure to follow the directions on the product label for safe and effective use.
7. Harvest
Nasturtiums are a great addition to your kitchen as well as your garden. The leaves and flowers of the plant are edible and can be used in salads, soups, and other dishes. The leaves have a peppery flavor, while the flowers have a mild, sweet taste. Make sure to harvest the leaves and flowers when they are young and tender for the best flavor.
8. Divide
After a few years, your nasturtium will need to be divided to prevent overcrowding. To do this, dig up the entire plant and carefully separate the roots. Replant the divisions in the same spot or in a new location. Make sure to water the plants well after dividing to help them get established.
9. Overwinter
If you live in a cold climate, you may need to take steps to overwinter your nasturtium. In the fall, cut back the plants and cover them with a layer of mulch. This will help protect the roots from extreme temperatures. In the spring, remove the mulch and give the plants a good drink of water. They should start to grow again soon.
10. Enjoy!
Once you’ve taken care of all the steps above, it’s time to sit back and enjoy your nasturtiums! These beautiful plants are sure to bring a smile to your face whenever you see them. Not only will they add a splash of colour to your garden, but they will also provide you with a tasty treat for your kitchen.
Conclusion
Growing nasturtium is easy and rewarding. With the right location, a bit of care, and some TLC, you can enjoy these beautiful flowers in your garden or container for years to come. Whether you’re growing them for their beauty or for their culinary and medicinal uses, nasturtiums are sure to bring a unique touch to your garden.