Nasturtiums

Planting nasturtiums

Sow directly after the last frost. The large seeds germinate quickly, and plants dislike transplanting, so sow them where they will grow.

Planting details

• Choose bush types for edging and vining types to climb or trail
• Spacing: 10 to 12 inches
• Seed depth: about 1/2 to 1 inch

Growing requirements

Nasturtiums need full sun and poor to average soil. Rich soil and fertilizer produce lush leaves and few flowers.

Harvesting and care

Deadhead to keep blooms coming, or let seeds drop for next year's volunteers. Leaves and flowers go straight into salads; pickle the green seed pods as caper substitutes.

Common mistakes

• Fertilizing, which trades flowers for foliage
• Transplanting, since roots resent disturbance
• Watering heavily, which rot-prone plants do not need once established

Companion plants

Nasturtiums suit the edges of vegetable beds and containers, where they spill over borders and attract pollinators. Their peppery leaves and flowers are edible.