A Radiant Explosion of Colors: Delight in Growing Nasturtiums at Home
Nasturtiums are the charismatic chameleons of the gardening world. They’re edible, medicinal, and visually striking – the perfect trifecta for any home garden! Nasturtiums are a traditional cottage garden flower and a popular flower in the Victorian language of flowers. They represent patriotism and victory in struggle.
Get Acquainted Delve into the World of Nasturtiums
These botanical beauties, also known as Tropaeolum, come in a dazzling array of subspecies and varieties, boasting hues from fiery oranges to luscious yellows. Notable ones include ‘Alaska Series’, known for its variegated leaves, and ‘Jewel of Africa’ with its trailing vines and colorful flowers.
The name “nasturtium” comes from the Latin word “nasturtium”, which means “nose twister”. This is because the flowers have a peppery taste that can make your nose tingle.
Tracing the Roots of Nasturtiums
Originally hailing from the highlands of South and Central America, Nasturtiums captivated the hearts of the Spanish Conquistadors, who brought them to Europe. The versatility and charm of these plants eventually sparked worldwide admiration.
A Feast for the Senses – The Nutritional and Historical Significance of Nasturtiums
Apart from their visual appeal, Nasturtiums are a tasty treat! Packed with Vitamin C and a spicy, peppery flavor, they’ve historically been used to combat scurvy. They also contain beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body. Nasturtiums have also been a staple in traditional herbal medicine due to their antibacterial properties. The leaves and flowers can be used to make a tea that is said to help with coughs, colds, and sore throats. The seeds can be used to make a gargle that can help with mouth ulcers.
The flowers, leaves, and even the seeds of nasturtiums are all edible. They can be used in salads, sandwiches, or as a garnish. The seeds can be pickled or used as a substitute for capers.
Nasturtiums varieties and Plant Types
Dwarf nasturtiums
These are small, compact plants that typically grow to be 12-18 inches tall. They have single or double flowers in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, red, and pink. Dwarf nasturtiums are perfect for growing in containers or in the front of a border.
Trailing nasturtiums
Vining plants that can grow to be 3-6 feet long. They are perfect for growing in hanging baskets or along a trellis. Trailing nasturtiums typically have single flowers in a variety of colors, but they can also have double flowers.
Canary Creeper
This is a trailing nasturtium that is native to South America. It has bright yellow flowers and can grow to be 6-8 feet long. Canary Creeper is a popular choice for growing in hanging baskets or along a trellis.
Varieties of dwarf nasturtiums:
- Peach Melba: Creamy flowers with raspberry red throats.
- Strawberries and Cream: Pale yellow flowers with splashes of rosy pink and red.
- Whirlybird: This variety has bushy plants with a variety of flower colors, including salmon, yellow, orange, and cream.
Varieties of trailing nasturtiums:
- Empress of India: Bright scarlet flowers and dark blue-green foliage.
- Night and Day: This variety has flowers in both red and white.
- Tip Top Alaska: Has variegated leaves, 10-inch-long vines, and flowers in yellow, red, and orange.
How to grow nasturtiums
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Seasons for Sowing | Spring, Summer |
| Seed Requirement for an Average Garden | 10 grams / 0.35 ounces |
| Distance Between Rows | 30 cm / 12 inches |
| Distance Between Plants After Thinning | 25 cm / 10 inches |
| Method of Planting | Direct sow in full sun after danger of frost. |
| How to Apply Fertilizer | Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and again in mid-summer. |
| Fertilizer to Use | Slow-release granular 10-10-10 fertilizer |
| Time Before Ready for Harvesting | 50-60 days |
| Probable Yield | Continuous blooming with proper care. Expect a handful of flowers from each plant every few days during the blooming season. |
Nasturtium Planting Guide
Nasturtiums can be grown in beds, borders, or containers. Choose a sunny location for these sun-loving gems, and improve the soil with well-rotted compost for optimal results. Plant seeds about an inch deep and 10-12 inches apart, giving your Nasturtiums plenty of room to flourish.
Nasturtium Care
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers; these bloomers prefer being a bit ‘underfed.’ Mulch around them to keep the soil moist but be careful not to overwater; they prefer their roots a little on the dry side.
Harvesting Glory – Reaping and Storing Your Nasturtiums
When flowers are vibrant and leaves lustrous, it’s time to harvest! Simply pluck the leaves and flowers off the plant. For preserving, consider pickling the seed pods or storing the leaves in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
Common Growing Problems
Nasturtiums may occasionally play hard to get. Overwatering can lead to yellow leaves, while insufficient light can cause leggy growth. The key lies in understanding their preferences: a little sunlight, a little water, and a lot of love!
Common Pests and Diseases
Aphids and caterpillars will be drawn to your Nasturtiums, but don’t panic as this is usually their primary job in a vegetable plot! If you want to protect your plants introduce natural predators like ladybugs or apply mild, organic insecticidal soaps to keep the invaders at bay.
Making Friends – Beneficial Insects and Companion Plants
Nasturtiums are often used as companion plants because they deter pests. They are especially good at sidetracking aphids, which can be a problem for many other garden plants.
Nasturtiums are sociable plants and pair well with veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes. They also attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, fostering a lively, biodiverse environment in your garden.
More Nuggets of Wisdom – Additional Cultivation Tips
Remember, Nasturtiums love sun, but they’ll appreciate some afternoon shade in the hottest summer months. Moreover, they’re self-seeding plants, so leave a few pods on the plant if you’d like a pleasant surprise next season!
Beyond the Garden – Growing Nasturtiums in containers and Indoors
Not to worry if you’re short on garden space. Nasturtiums can be conveniently grown in pots and even indoors! Nasturtiums make for beautiful ornamental plants as they come in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, red, and pink. Choose a well-draining pot and place it in a sunny spot, preferably near a south-facing window. Indoor Nasturtiums may need a bit more attention, particularly with watering, so keep a close eye on the soil moisture levels.
There you have it – your comprehensive guide to embracing the joys of growing Nasturtiums! Not only do these plants add a vibrant dash of color to your home garden, but they also serve as tasty and nutritious additions to your meals. They’re a reminder of how delightful and rewarding gardening can be.
Put on those gardening gloves, get dirty with soil, and let the magic of Nasturtiums sweep you off your feet! Your vibrant Nasturtium blooms will not only be a testament to your green thumb but also a celebration of the awe-inspiring power of nature.
