When To Plant Nasturtium Seeds

Benefits of Nasturtium Seeds

Nasturtiums, also known as Tropaeolum, are not only beautiful flowers but also offer a wide range of benefits. These vibrant and easy-to-grow plants have been cultivated for centuries for their culinary and medicinal uses. Here are some of the key benefits of nasturtium seeds:

Edible Delights:
Nasturtium seeds have a unique peppery flavor that adds zest to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. The seeds can be pickled or used as a substitute for capers, providing a delightful tangy twist to your favorite recipes.
Nutritional Powerhouse:
Nasturtium seeds are packed with essential nutrients. They are rich in vitamin C, iron, manganese, and antioxidants that boost your immune system, enhance collagen production, and promote healthy skin and hair.
Medicinal Properties:
Nasturtiums possess antibacterial and antifungal properties. Traditional medicine has long used nasturtium extracts to help treat respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and skin conditions such as eczema and acne.
Pest Repellent:
Nasturtiums are natural pest deterrents. Their strong scent repels aphids, whiteflies, and other harmful insects, making them an excellent companion plant in your garden. Additionally, nasturtiums attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Soil Improvement:
Nasturtiums have the ability to improve soil quality. They are known as “bioaccumulators” as they absorb and release nutrients into the soil. By planting nasturtiums, you can enhance the fertility of your garden and prepare the soil for future plantings.

Incorporating nasturtium seeds into your garden not only adds beauty but also provides a range of culinary delights, medicinal benefits, and natural pest control. Their easy cultivation and nutritional value make them a fantastic addition to any garden or kitchen. So, why not give these vibrant flowers a try and enjoy their numerous advantages?

Understanding Nasturtium Growth Requirements

Before planting nasturtium seeds, it’s important to understand their growth requirements. By providing the right conditions, you can ensure optimal growth and a bountiful display of colorful flowers. Here are some key factors to consider:

Sunlight:
Nasturtiums thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Aim to provide at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day for healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Soil Type:
Nasturtiums prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it is important to avoid waterlogged or compacted soil that may cause root rot.
Watering:
Nasturtiums have moderate watering needs. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not overly saturated. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization:
Nasturtiums are relatively low maintenance and do not require excessive fertilization. However, applying a balanced organic fertilizer once during the growing season can promote healthier foliage and more abundant flowers.
Temperature:
Nasturtiums are warm-season plants and prefer temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C and 24°C). They are relatively frost-tolerant but may suffer damage in extreme cold.

Understanding the growth requirements of nasturtiums is crucial for their successful cultivation. By providing the right balance of sunlight, well-drained soil, appropriate watering, and moderate fertilization, you can ensure healthy plants that flourish with an abundance of colorful blooms. Remember to consider the local climate and adjust your gardening practices accordingly to maximize the growth and beauty of your nasturtiums.

Determining the Right Time to Plant Nasturtium Seeds

Timing is crucial when it comes to planting nasturtium seeds. These annual flowers thrive in warm weather and are sensitive to frost and cold temperatures. By choosing the appropriate planting time, you can ensure optimal germination and a successful growing season. Here are some guidelines to help you determine the right time to plant nasturtium seeds:

Last Frost Date:
Nasturtiums should be planted after the threat of frost has passed. Check your local climate and find out the average last frost date in your area. Planting a couple of weeks after this date will help ensure that the seedlings won’t be affected by late spring frosts.
Soil Temperature:
Nasturtium seeds germinate best when the soil temperature is around 55°F to 65°F (13°C to 18°C). Use a soil thermometer to monitor the temperature. If the soil is too cold, it may delay germination or cause the seeds to rot. Wait until the soil has warmed up before planting the seeds.
Growing Season Length:
Consider the length of your growing season when deciding when to plant nasturtium seeds. They take approximately 7 to 14 days to germinate and require around 7 to 12 weeks to reach maturity. Ensure that your growing season is long enough to accommodate the full growth cycle of the plants.
Regional Climate:
Different regions have varying climates, and the ideal planting time for nasturtium seeds may differ. Consult your local agricultural extension office or gardening resources to determine the specific planting window for your area. They can provide valuable insights and gardening calendars tailored to your region.

By considering the last frost date, monitoring soil temperature, assessing the length of your growing season, and understanding your regional climate, you can determine the optimal timing to plant nasturtium seeds. Planting them when the soil has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed will give your seeds the best chance of successful germination and growth, ultimately leading to a vibrant and flourishing garden.

Planting Nasturtium Seeds in Early Spring

Early spring is an ideal time to plant nasturtium seeds, as it allows the plants to establish and bloom during the warmer months. Follow these steps to ensure successful planting and a burst of color in your garden:

Prepare the Soil:
Start by preparing the soil where you plan to sow the seeds. Loosen the soil and remove any weeds or debris. Nasturtiums prefer well-draining soil, so amend it with organic matter if necessary.
Sow the Seeds:
Place the seeds in the prepared soil, spacing them about 8-12 inches apart. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, approximately 1/4 inch deep. Gently pat down the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Provide Adequate Water:
After planting, water the soil thoroughly but avoid overwatering. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Be careful not to wash away the seeds or disturb the soil surface during watering.
Care for the Seedlings:
Once the seeds have germinated, thin out the seedlings to ensure proper spacing and adequate airflow. Avoid overcrowding, as it can lead to poor growth and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Protect from Frost:
As you plant in early spring, keep an eye on the weather forecast and protect the young seedlings from late frosts. Cover them with a light fabric or use cloches to provide extra insulation during cold spells.
Provide Sunlight:
Nasturtiums require full sun to flourish. Ensure that the planting area receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. If your garden has partial shade, choose a location that receives the maximum sunlight possible.

Planting nasturtium seeds in early spring sets the stage for a vibrant and abundant display of flowers. By providing the right soil conditions, adequate water, protection from frost, and ample sunlight, you can encourage healthy growth and enjoy the colorful blooms throughout the warmer months. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to plant these cheerful flowers to brighten up your garden.

Planting Nasturtium Seeds in Late Spring

Late spring is another opportune time to plant nasturtium seeds, particularly for gardeners who may have missed the early spring planting window. By following these steps, you can still enjoy a beautiful display of nasturtium blooms later in the season:

Prepare the Soil:
Begin by preparing the planting area. Clear away any weeds, debris, or rocks from the soil. Loosen the soil and amend it with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Sow the Seeds:
Place the nasturtium seeds in the prepared soil, keeping a distance of 8-12 inches between each seed. Cover them lightly with soil, no deeper than 1/4 inch. Gently press the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Water the Seeds:
After planting, water the soil thoroughly to ensure the seeds are adequately moistened. Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid excessive watering, as it may lead to rotting or disease.
Protect from Extreme Heat:
Late spring can bring higher temperatures, so it’s important to protect the newly planted seeds from extreme heat. Consider providing some shade or using mulch to keep the soil cool and retain moisture.
Thin Out the Seedlings:
Once the seeds have germinated and the seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them out to allow proper airflow and prevent overcrowding. Aim for a spacing of 8-12 inches between each seedling.
Provide Sunlight:
Nasturtiums thrive in full sun, so ensure that the planting area receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. If your garden has partial shade, select a spot that receives the maximum sun exposure possible.

Late spring planting offers a second chance to grow beautiful nasturtiums in your garden. By preparing the soil, sowing the seeds correctly, providing adequate water, protecting from extreme heat, and maintaining proper spacing, you can ensure that your late-planted nasturtiums will grow and bloom just as beautifully as those planted earlier in the season. So, don’t miss this opportunity to add a burst of color to your garden with these versatile and vibrant flowers.

Planting Nasturtium Seeds in Early Summer

If you find yourself in early summer with a desire to add some colorful blooms to your garden, you can still plant nasturtium seeds and enjoy their vibrant display. Follow these steps to successfully plant nasturtiums in early summer:

Prepare the Soil:
Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris. Loosen the soil and amend it with compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Sow the Seeds:
Place the nasturtium seeds in the prepared soil, ensuring a spacing of 8-12 inches between each seed. Lightly cover the seeds with soil, no deeper than 1/4 inch. Gently pat down the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Water the Seeds:
After planting, water the soil thoroughly to ensure the seeds are adequately moistened. Maintain consistent moisture, watering whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Provide Partial Shade:
Early summer can bring hotter temperatures, so consider providing some partial shade to protect the newly planted seeds from intense sunlight. This can be achieved by using shade cloth or strategically planting them under the larger leafy plants.
Thin Out the Seedlings:
Once the seeds have germinated and the seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them out to allow adequate space for each plant to grow and thrive. Aim for a spacing of 8-12 inches between each seedling.
Continue Watering:
Nasturtiums prefer consistently moist soil, so continue to water the plants regularly throughout the growing season. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.

Although planting nasturtium seeds in early summer may be a bit later than the optimal time, with proper care and attention, you can still enjoy a lovely display of colorful nasturtium flowers. By preparing the soil, sowing the seeds correctly, providing adequate water, offering partial shade, and maintaining proper spacing, you will give your summer-planted nasturtiums the best chance to grow and provide a burst of beauty to your garden.

Planting Nasturtium Seeds in Late Summer

While late summer may not be the most ideal time to plant nasturtium seeds, it is still possible to enjoy their vibrant blooms with a little extra care. By following these steps, you can give your late-planted nasturtiums a chance to grow and thrive:

Prepare the Soil:
Begin by preparing the planting area. Remove any weeds or debris and loosen the soil. Adding compost or organic matter can help improve soil fertility and drainage.
Sow the Seeds:
Place the nasturtium seeds in the prepared soil, keeping a spacing of 8-12 inches between each seed. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, about 1/4 inch deep. Gently press the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Water Regularly:
Late summer usually brings hotter and drier weather, so it is important to water the newly planted seeds regularly. Ensure that the soil remains consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Provide Shade:
Nasturtiums prefer cooler temperatures, so providing some shade during the hottest part of the day can help protect the plants from excessive heat stress. Consider using shade cloth or plant them in areas with partial shade.
Monitor Pests and Diseases:
Late summer is often a time when pests and diseases become more prevalent. Keep a close eye on your nasturtium plants and take necessary measures to prevent and manage any issues. Remove any infected or damaged leaves promptly.
Keep Weeds Under Control:
Weeds can compete for nutrients and water, affecting the growth of your nasturtiums. Take the time to regularly weed the planting area, ensuring that your nasturtiums have the best possible environment for growth.

While planting nasturtium seeds in late summer may present some challenges, it is still worth a try. By preparing the soil, sowing the seeds correctly, providing regular watering, shade, and pest control, you can give your late-planted nasturtiums a fighting chance to grow and bloom beautifully. With a little extra care and attention, you may just be rewarded with vibrant and colorful flowers to enjoy in your garden as the summer season transitions into autumn.

Tips for Successful Nasturtium Seed Planting

Planting nasturtium seeds is a rewarding endeavor that can bring beauty and culinary delights to your garden. Here are some tips to help ensure successful germination and healthy growth of your nasturtium plants:

Soaking Seeds:
Consider soaking nasturtium seeds in water overnight before planting. This can help soften the seed coat and promote faster germination.
Direct Sowing:
Nasturtium seeds are best sown directly into the garden bed rather than starting them indoors. Their delicate roots do not transplant well, so avoid disturbing the seedlings once they have sprouted.
Good Drainage:
Ensure that the planting area has good drainage to prevent waterlogged soil, as excessive moisture can cause the seeds to rot. If your soil is heavy or poorly draining, consider adding organic matter or creating raised beds.
Proper Spacing:
Allow sufficient spacing between each seed when planting. This will promote proper airflow, reduce the risk of diseases, and allow each plant to receive adequate sunlight and nutrients as they grow.
Deadheading:
Regularly remove spent flowers (deadheading) from your nasturtium plants to encourage continuous blooming. This practice also prevents the plants from going to seed too quickly, allowing their energy to be directed towards producing more flowers.
Companion Planting:
Nasturtiums are excellent companion plants in the garden. They can help repel aphids, beetles, and squash bugs while attracting beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies. Consider planting nasturtiums alongside vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, or cabbage for a natural pest control solution.
Harvesting Seeds:
If you want to collect seeds from your nasturtium plants, allow some of the flowers to go to seed towards the end of the growing season. Harvest the dry seeds, store them in a cool and dry place, and use them for culinary purposes or for planting the following year.

By following these tips, you can increase the likelihood of successful nasturtium seed planting. Soaking the seeds, direct sowing, ensuring good drainage, proper spacing, deadheading, companion planting, and harvesting seeds will contribute to the overall health, beauty, and productivity of your nasturtium plants. Enjoy the process of nurturing these lovely flowers and witnessing their vibrant blooms enhance your garden and culinary adventures.

Caring for Nasturtium Plants

Once your nasturtium seeds have germinated and started growing, it’s important to provide proper care to ensure healthy and vigorous plants. Here are some essential tips for caring for your nasturtium plants:

Watering:
Nasturtiums prefer consistently moist soil. Water the plants regularly, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Aim to water the soil directly rather than wetting the foliage to prevent the spread of diseases.
Fertilizing:
Nasturtiums are relatively low maintenance and do not require heavy fertilization. However, a light application of balanced organic fertilizer or compost in early spring can provide a nutrient boost. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can result in more foliage growth than flowers.
Support and Training:
Depending on the variety, some nasturtiums can benefit from support structures like trellises or stakes. This will help them climb and create a stunning vertical display. Gently guide the vines as they grow, ensuring they are properly secured to the support to prevent breakage.
Controlling Pests and Diseases:
Keep an eye out for common pests such as aphids or caterpillars. Regularly inspect the foliage and underside of leaves, and take necessary action at the first sign of infestation. Use organic pest control methods, such as handpicking, spraying with insecticidal soap, or introducing beneficial insects.
Pruning:
While nasturtiums generally don’t require extensive pruning, removing dead or damaged foliage can improve air circulation and prevent the spread of diseases. Prune selectively to shape the plants or redirect growth as needed.
Mulching:
Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, being careful not to cover the stems or foliage directly.
Regular Harvesting:
Regularly harvest the edible flowers and leaves to encourage continuous blooming and maintain the plant’s overall health. It’s best to harvest nasturtiums in the morning when the flowers are freshest. Use the harvested flowers and leaves in salads, sandwiches, or as a garnish to add a peppery flavor and a pop of color to your dishes.

By providing proper watering, light fertilization, support when needed, pest and disease control, selective pruning, mulching, and regular harvesting, you can ensure the health and longevity of your nasturtium plants. These simple care practices will promote a flourishing and vibrant display of flowers, allowing you to fully enjoy the beauty and culinary benefits of these versatile plants.

Harvesting Nasturtium Seeds

Harvesting nasturtium seeds is a rewarding process that allows you to propagate new plants for future seasons and enjoy their unique flavor in culinary creations. Here’s how to successfully harvest and store nasturtium seeds:

Timing:
Wait until the flowers have faded and the seed pods have formed on the plant. The seed pods will appear swollen and turn yellow or brown as they mature. Harvest the seeds when the pods are dry and crisp to the touch.
Seed Pod Harvesting:
Gently pluck the seed pods from the plant by hand, or use small scissors or pruners to carefully snip them off. Place the harvested seed pods in a clean, dry container to prevent them from spilling or getting lost.
Drying the Seed Pods:
Allow the seed pods to dry further in a well-ventilated and dry location. Spread them out on a clean tray or paper towel, making sure they are in a single layer. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or in a humid environment.
Seed Extraction:
Once the seed pods are fully dried, gently open them to release the seeds. You can do this by using your fingers or gently pressing on the pods. The seeds should come out easily, as they will be dry and brittle.
Seed Storage:
Store the harvested seeds in a cool, dry, and dark place. Place them in a small, airtight container, such as a glass jar or a ziplock bag. Label the container with the date of harvest and the variety of nasturtium seeds.
Seed Viability:
Nasturtium seeds can remain viable for several years if stored properly. However, for the best germination rates, it is recommended to use the seeds within one to two years of harvesting.

Harvesting nasturtium seeds allows you to continue enjoying their blooms in the following seasons and adds an exciting dimension to your culinary adventures. By timing your harvest correctly, gently removing the seed pods, drying them thoroughly, extracting the seeds, and storing them properly, you can ensure the highest seed quality and maintain the unique characteristics of the nasturtium variety. So, don’t miss the opportunity to collect and store these precious seeds for future planting and to share their beauty and flavor with others.