Grow Your Own Edible Garden: A Complete Guide to Growing Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a delightful addition to any garden. Not only are they beautiful with their vibrant colors and charming, rounded leaves, but they are also completely edible, offering a peppery, slightly spicy flavor that enhances salads, sandwiches, and even desserts. Growing nasturtiums is remarkably easy, making them a perfect choice for beginner gardeners and seasoned pros alike. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from choosing the right variety to harvesting and enjoying your homegrown nasturtiums.

## Why Grow Nasturtiums?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of growing nasturtiums, let’s take a moment to appreciate why these plants are so popular:

* **Edible Beauty:** Nasturtiums offer both visual appeal and culinary delight. The flowers, leaves, and even the seed pods are edible, adding a unique flavor and texture to your meals.
* **Easy to Grow:** They are incredibly low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of conditions, making them a great choice for beginner gardeners.
* **Pest Deterrent:** Nasturtiums can attract aphids away from other plants, acting as a natural pest control method in your garden.
* **Pollinator Attractor:** Their bright colors attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, contributing to a healthy garden ecosystem.
* **Versatile:** They can be grown in containers, hanging baskets, or directly in the ground, offering flexibility for different garden spaces.
* **Nutritious:** Nasturtiums are a good source of Vitamin C and other beneficial nutrients.

## Choosing the Right Nasturtium Variety

Nasturtiums come in a variety of colors, sizes, and growth habits. When choosing a variety, consider your garden space, culinary preferences, and desired aesthetic. Here are some popular options:

* **Trailing Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus):** These varieties are ideal for hanging baskets, window boxes, or ground cover. They produce long, trailing vines that can cascade beautifully over edges. Popular trailing varieties include:
* **’Alaska’:** Known for its variegated foliage and a mix of red, orange, and yellow flowers.
* **’Trailing Mix’:** A blend of colors, providing a vibrant and varied display.
* **’Jewel Mix’:** A classic mix with a range of colors from bright yellow to deep mahogany.
* **Bush Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum minus):** These compact varieties are perfect for containers, borders, or small gardens. They form neat, bushy plants that are easy to manage. Popular bush varieties include:
* **’Empress of India’:** Features striking deep blue-green leaves and scarlet flowers.
* **’Tom Thumb’:** A dwarf variety with small leaves and a profusion of colorful flowers.
* **’Peach Melba’:** Boasts creamy yellow flowers with a red blotch at the base of each petal.
* **Climbing Nasturtiums:** Some varieties, like ‘Canary Creeper’ (Tropaeolum peregrinum), are vigorous climbers that can be trained up trellises or fences. These are less common but offer a unique vertical element to your garden.

Consider your climate when selecting a variety. While nasturtiums are generally adaptable, some varieties may perform better in specific conditions. Check the seed packet or plant label for information on the variety’s suitability for your region.

## Getting Started: Planting Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are relatively easy to start from seed, either directly in the ground or indoors for transplanting later. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

### 1. Timing

* **Direct Sowing:** Sow nasturtium seeds directly into the garden after the last frost. They germinate best when the soil temperature is consistently above 60°F (15°C).
* **Starting Indoors:** If you live in a region with a short growing season, you can start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. This will give your plants a head start.

### 2. Location

* **Sunlight:** Nasturtiums thrive in full sun (6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day) but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates. Too much shade can result in fewer flowers.
* **Soil:** They prefer well-drained soil that is not overly fertile. In fact, poor soil encourages more blooms. Avoid rich, heavily fertilized soil, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

### 3. Preparing the Soil

* **Loosen the Soil:** Use a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches. This will improve drainage and allow the roots to penetrate easily.
* **Amend the Soil (If Necessary):** If your soil is heavy clay or very sandy, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and nutrient retention. However, remember that nasturtiums prefer less fertile soil, so don’t overdo it.
* **Level the Soil:** Rake the soil to create a smooth, even surface.

### 4. Sowing the Seeds

* **Soaking the Seeds (Optional):** Soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting can help to speed up germination.
* **Planting Depth:** Sow the seeds about ½ inch deep and 10-12 inches apart. For trailing varieties, allow more space for them to spread.
* **Watering:** Gently water the soil after planting to keep it moist but not waterlogged.

### 5. Starting Seeds Indoors

* **Use Seed Trays or Pots:** Fill seed trays or small pots with a seed-starting mix.
* **Sow the Seeds:** Sow one or two seeds per cell or pot, about ½ inch deep.
* **Water and Cover:** Water gently and cover the trays or pots with a plastic dome or plastic wrap to create a humid environment.
* **Provide Light:** Place the trays or pots in a warm location with bright, indirect light. A grow light can be helpful if you don’t have a sunny window.
* **Keep the Soil Moist:** Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
* **Harden Off Seedlings:** Before transplanting the seedlings outdoors, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions by hardening them off. This involves exposing them to increasing amounts of sunlight and fresh air over a period of 7-10 days.

### 6. Transplanting Seedlings

* **Choose a Cloudy Day:** Transplant seedlings on a cloudy day or in the late afternoon to minimize stress.
* **Dig Holes:** Dig holes that are slightly larger than the root balls of the seedlings.
* **Gently Remove Seedlings:** Carefully remove the seedlings from their trays or pots, being careful not to damage the roots.
* **Place Seedlings in Holes:** Place the seedlings in the holes and backfill with soil, gently firming the soil around the base of the plants.
* **Water Thoroughly:** Water the seedlings thoroughly after transplanting.

## Caring for Your Nasturtiums

Once your nasturtiums are established, they require very little care. Here are some tips to keep them thriving:

* **Watering:** Water regularly, especially during dry periods. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
* **Fertilizing:** As mentioned earlier, nasturtiums prefer poor soil and do not require much fertilizer. In fact, excessive fertilization can lead to lush foliage growth at the expense of flowers. If you feel the need to fertilize, use a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength, but only do so sparingly.
* **Deadheading:** Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms. This will also prevent the plants from going to seed too quickly, which can reduce flowering.
* **Pest Control:** Nasturtiums are relatively pest-resistant, but they can occasionally be affected by aphids, cabbage white butterflies, or slugs.
* **Aphids:** If aphids become a problem, try spraying the plants with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap.
* **Cabbage White Butterflies:** Handpick any cabbage white butterfly caterpillars that you find on the plants.
* **Slugs:** Use slug bait or traps to control slugs.
* **Support:** Trailing nasturtiums may benefit from some support, such as a trellis or stakes, to keep them off the ground and prevent them from becoming tangled.

## Harvesting Nasturtiums

One of the best things about growing nasturtiums is that you can harvest and enjoy them throughout the growing season. Here’s how:

* **Flowers:** Harvest the flowers when they are fully open and brightly colored. Gently pluck them from the stem. They are best used fresh.
* **Leaves:** Harvest the leaves as needed. Choose young, tender leaves for the best flavor. They can be used fresh or cooked.
* **Seed Pods:** Harvest the seed pods when they are still green and tender. They have a peppery flavor similar to capers and can be pickled or used fresh.

## Using Nasturtiums in the Kitchen

Nasturtiums are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Here are some ideas for using the flowers, leaves, and seed pods:

* **Salads:** Add the flowers and leaves to salads for a peppery kick and a splash of color.
* **Sandwiches:** Use the leaves as a spicy alternative to lettuce in sandwiches or wraps.
* **Garnishes:** Use the flowers to garnish soups, salads, and other dishes.
* **Pesto:** Make a nasturtium pesto by blending the leaves with garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and nuts.
* **Vinegar:** Infuse vinegar with nasturtium flowers for a colorful and flavorful condiment.
* **Pickled Seed Pods:** Pickle the green seed pods for a homemade alternative to capers.
* **Stuffed Flowers:** Stuff the flowers with cheese or rice for a unique appetizer.
* **Butter:** Mix chopped nasturtium leaves into softened butter for a flavorful spread.

## Troubleshooting Common Nasturtium Problems

While nasturtiums are generally easy to grow, you may encounter a few problems along the way. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

* **Lack of Flowers:** If your nasturtiums are producing plenty of foliage but few flowers, it could be due to overly fertile soil. Avoid fertilizing and ensure that the plants are getting enough sunlight.
* **Yellowing Leaves:** Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering or nutrient deficiencies. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. If the problem persists, try adding a small amount of balanced fertilizer.
* **Pest Infestations:** As mentioned earlier, aphids, cabbage white butterflies, and slugs can sometimes be a problem. Use appropriate pest control methods to address infestations.
* **Root Rot:** Root rot is caused by overwatering and can be fatal to nasturtiums. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.

## Saving Nasturtium Seeds

Saving nasturtium seeds is a great way to propagate your favorite varieties and save money on seeds in the future. Here’s how:

* **Allow Seed Pods to Mature:** Allow the seed pods to mature on the plant until they turn brown and dry.
* **Harvest the Seeds:** Collect the dried seed pods and crack them open to release the seeds. The seeds are round and wrinkled.
* **Dry the Seeds:** Spread the seeds out on a tray or screen to dry completely. This will prevent them from molding during storage.
* **Store the Seeds:** Store the dried seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. They should remain viable for several years.

## Nasturtium Companion Planting

Nasturtiums are excellent companion plants for a variety of vegetables and herbs. Here are some of their beneficial relationships:

* **Tomatoes:** Nasturtiums can help to deter aphids and other pests that attack tomatoes.
* **Cucumbers:** They can also protect cucumbers from pests and attract pollinators to improve fruit set.
* **Broccoli and Cabbage:** Nasturtiums can help to repel cabbage white butterflies, which lay eggs that hatch into caterpillars that can devastate these crops.
* **Fruit Trees:** Planting nasturtiums around the base of fruit trees can help to control aphids and other pests.

Avoid planting nasturtiums near beans, as they can inhibit bean growth.

## Conclusion

Growing nasturtiums is a rewarding experience that combines beauty, flavor, and ease of cultivation. With their vibrant colors, peppery taste, and pest-deterrent properties, nasturtiums are a valuable addition to any garden. By following the tips and instructions in this guide, you can successfully grow your own edible garden and enjoy the many benefits that these wonderful plants have to offer. So, grab some seeds, get your hands dirty, and start growing nasturtiums today!