How to Grow and Care for Nasturtium

Plant Care

Nasturtiums are easy-care and ideal for the novice gardener. They grow quickly from seed, are happy in poorer soils, and seldom need fertilizing. Most familiar for their trailing or bushy growth habit, they equally adapt easily at home in containers, hanging baskets and even vertical spaces such as trellises. These bright blooms not only attract pollinators but also serve as a great companion plant to deter pests from vegetables.

Light

Nasturtiums thrive in full sun, 6 to 8 hours daily for maximum flower production. In extremely hot areas, some afternoon shade can help prevent heat stress. Too much shade, however, may result in more leaves and fewer blooms.

Soil

Interestingly, nasturtiums prefer poor to average soil. Overly rich or heavily fertilized soils result in lush foliage but very few flowers. The secret is good drainage—select a light, well-draining soil and steer clear of high-nitrogen fertilizers.

Watering

Maintain the soil moderately moist, especially during hot, dry spells. Nasturtiums are moderately drought-tolerant, but regular watering boosts healthy plants and better blooms.

• Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
• Be careful not to over water as it can cause root rot.
• In summer, Nasturtiums grown in pots may require regular watering.

Pruning

Nasturtiums respond well to gentle pruning and pinching. Remove spent flowers regularly to promote ongoing blooming. If plants start to appear leggy or scraggly, prune them back by about one-third to incite growth. With trailing types, cutting back long vines promotes bushier growth and a more compact form.

Propagating

Nasturtiums are most commonly grown from seed, which germinates quickly and easily.

• Sow seeds directly into the garden after the last frost date. 
• Plant them ½ inch deep and 10–12 inches apart. 
• You can also plant them indoors 2–4 weeks before your last frost time and transplant them once the weather warms. In warm soil, seeds will germinate within 7–10 days.

While technically possible to root cuttings, growing from seed is far more effective and reliable.

Growing in Pots

Nasturtiums are ideal for pots and hanging baskets.

• Choose a container with good drainage holes.
• Use light, well-draining soil with minimal fertilizer.
• For the best blooming, place the pot in a full sun location.
• Water regularly but do not overwater — allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
• Trim back trailing vines from time to time to maintain a tidy and blooming plant.

Overwintering

Nasturtiums are usually annuals in most climates and die back with the first frost. But they may become very short-lived perennials in frost-free zones (USDA 10–11). In cooler zones, they may be overwintered indoors:

• Bring potted plants indoors before the first frost
• Put it in a bright windowsill or under grow lights.
• Water sparingly — just to keep soil barely moist.

Alternatively, collect seeds in fall for replanting in spring. Let the pods dry on the plant, then store them in a cool, dry place.

Blooming

Nasturtiums start flowering in late spring or early summer and keep going until the first frost. The flowers come in shades of orange, red, yellow, and cream, with five-petaled blooms often marked by darker nectar guides that attract bees.

Blooming tips:

• Avoid rich soil — leaner soil yields more blooms.
• Deadhead frequently to extend flowering time.
• Water moderately but consistently, while ensuring adequate sunlight.

Common Issues

Though Nasturtiums are relatively pest-free, a few issues may arise:

• Aphids are the biggest problem—rinse off with water or use neem oil.
• Caterpillars may feed on leaves — handpick if necessary.
• Powdery mildew may develop in humid weather — improve air circulation and refrain from overhead watering.
• Lack of blooms is often due to overly rich soil or too much shade.

Summary

Easy, edible, and endlessly cheerful, nasturtiums are a wonderful addition to any garden or patio. Whether you are growing them for their cheery flowers, pest-fighting powers or culinary uses, they provide charm and usefulness with little effort. Once you grow them, you’ll want them back every summer.