Those Glorious, Go-Getting Nasturtiums!

There’s a certain magic that happens in the garden when midsummer truly kicks in. The air hums with bees, the tomatoes are starting to blush, and my thoughts naturally drift to those vibrant pops of color that just refuse to quit. And if there’s one plant that embodies that carefree, exuberant spirit, it’s the humble nasturtium. Seriously, these guys are the rockstars of the annual flower world, and I’ve been singing their praises in my own garden for years.

For me, nasturtiums are more than just pretty faces; they’re a little bit of sunshine on a stem. Last season, I experimented with a trailing variety along the edge of a raised bed, and it was just breathtaking. The bright oranges and deep reds spilling over the wood created such a cheerful welcome. They’re also incredibly forgiving, which, let’s be honest, is a huge plus for busy gardeners (myself included!). They demand little and give so much, a ratio I can always get behind.

What I’ve Learned About Nasturtiums

From my eight years in the trenches of industry analysis, I’ve learned to appreciate efficiency and impact. And when it comes to gardening, nasturtiums tick those boxes in spades. They’re not fussy, they’re relatively pest-resistant (more on that later!), and they produce a spectacle of blooms from, well, pretty much as soon as you can plant them until the first real chill of autumn.

One of the things that always surprises new gardeners is the sheer range of colors. We often think of nasturtiums as just bright orange or yellow, but oh no, my friends. You’ll find them in creamy whites, soft salmon pinks, rich burgundies, and vibrant crimsons. Some even have these gorgeous, almost marbled leaves that are an attraction in themselves.

There are two main types you’ll encounter: the bushy or dwarf varieties, perfect for filling pots or the front of borders, and the glorious climbers, which can scramble up trellises, cover a wall, or cascade dramatically from a hanging basket. I’ve tried both, and each has its own charm. The bushy ones are great for adding pops of color wherever you need them, while the climbers offer that lush, overflowing effect that just makes a garden feel more… alive.

Growing Tips from Experience

So, how do you get these beauties to thrive? Honestly, it’s pretty darn simple.

  • Starting from Seed: This is my preferred method, as nasturtiums are incredibly easy to grow from seed. You can sow them directly into the ground after the last frost, or get a head start indoors a few weeks prior. The seeds are quite large, almost like little pebbles, which makes them easy to handle. I always tell people to sow them about an inch deep and a good 6-12 inches apart, depending on whether you’re going for bushy or trailing. I’ve found that direct sowing in warmer soil gives them the best initial boost.
  • Location, Location, Location: Nasturtiums absolutely love the sun. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. However, and this is a tip I learned the hard way in a particularly brutal heatwave, they can sometimes get a bit scorched in the most intense afternoon sun. So, if you live in a super hot climate, a spot that gets morning sun and dappled afternoon shade can be ideal.
  • Soil Savvy: Here’s a little secret: nasturtiums don’t need fancy, nutrient-rich soil. In fact, they prefer lean soil. Rich soil can lead to more leaf growth and fewer flowers, which is the opposite of what we want! I’ve had fantastic results in pretty average garden soil, even areas where I’m trying to amend it for other, more demanding plants. If you’re planting in pots, a good quality potting mix is fine, but avoid anything too heavy on the compost.
  • Watering Wisdom: They’re surprisingly drought-tolerant once established, which makes them a great choice for organic gardening and those looking for low-maintenance landscaping. Water them regularly when they’re young and getting established. Once they’re going strong, you can let the soil dry out a bit between waterings. Overwatering is probably the most common mistake; it can lead to root rot and, again, fewer blooms.
  • Feeding? Not So Much: As I mentioned, nasturtiums aren’t greedy feeders. If you’re gardening organically, the natural nutrients in your soil will likely be enough. I’ve never felt the need to fertilize them, and I encourage you to resist the urge too! Too much nitrogen will result in lush, green foliage but a disappointing flower show.

Seasonal Considerations

  • Spring: Sow seeds directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. If you started them indoors, transplant seedlings carefully after hardening them off.
  • Summer: This is their peak performance time! Keep an eye on watering, especially during dry spells. Deadheading isn’t strictly necessary, as they tend to shed their spent blooms, but it can encourage a tidier look and potentially more flowers.
  • Autumn: Nasturtiums are champions of the first frosts. They’ll keep blooming right up until the cold weather truly settles in. You can even let some of the seed pods develop and drop for self-seeding the following year.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Over-Fertilizing: I can’t stress this enough. It’s like giving a couch potato a shot of espresso – they’ll get a bit jumpy and less inclined to do what you want! Stick to lean soil.
  • Too Much Water: Soggy roots are unhappy roots. Ensure good drainage, especially in containers.
  • Shady Spots: While they might survive, they won’t truly flourish. Their vibrant colors are best displayed in full sun.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to plant this?

For most climates, the best time to plant nasturtiums is after the last spring frost. You can also sow seeds directly into the garden in early to mid-spring. If you want an earlier bloom, you can start seeds indoors about 2-3 weeks before your last frost date.

How often should I water?

Water nasturtiums regularly when they are young and establishing their roots. Once established, they are quite drought-tolerant. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering is a common cause of problems, so it’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.

Do nasturtiums attract pests?

Nasturtiums are actually known for being a trap crop for aphids. This means they can attract aphids away from other, more vulnerable plants. While you might see aphids on your nasturtiums, they can actually help protect your vegetable garden. If the aphid population becomes overwhelming, you can often rinse them off with a strong spray of water or use organic insecticidal soap.

Can I grow nasturtiums in containers?

Absolutely! Dwarf and bushy varieties are perfect for container gardening. Just make sure the pot has good drainage and you use a well-draining potting mix. For trailing varieties, a hanging basket can be spectacular!

Are nasturtiums edible?

Yes, they are! Both the flowers and leaves are edible and have a peppery, slightly spicy flavor, similar to watercress. They make a beautiful and delicious addition to salads. I love adding them to a mixed green salad for a burst of color and a bit of a zing.

Nasturtiums are truly a gift from the gardening gods. They’re a reminder that sometimes, the most beautiful things in life are also the easiest to care for. Give them a try this season; I have a feeling you’ll fall in love with their cheerful disposition just like I have. Happy gardening!

About Emma Chen: Industry analyst with extensive experience in research and analysis. Contact | More about our team

Analysis based on professional experience and research.

Photo by Francesco Gallarotti on Unsplash