Last updated on March 15th, 2025 at 08:31 pm
Nasturtiums, with their vibrant colors and peppery flavor, are not just a delight for the eyes but also a versatile addition to any garden and kitchen. Whether cascading from a hanging basket or adorning a salad, these easy-to-grow flowers are appealing and exciting.
Nasturtium: A Favorite Old-Fashioned Garden Flower
Here’s all you need to know about growing nasturtiums, along with some delectable recipes to savor their unique taste.
The resurgence in interest in growing old-fashioned flowers has helped the nasturtium make a comeback in gardens. The flowers have a delicate fragrance that many people will remember from grandma’s garden.
The nasturtium is a versatile plant for edging flowerbeds or window boxes, patio containers, or hanging baskets. The abundant, colorful blooms can be cut for use as an elegant entree garnish or salad decoration. The leaves, which contain a good dose of vitamin C, add a peppery flavor to fresh salads.
History of Nasturtiums
Tropaeolum minor, the scientific name for the nasturtium, comes from the Greek word meaning “to twine,” which is descriptive of some of the 50 species in this genus.
Nasturtium was first found growing in Mexico and Peru where it was used instead of cress to flavor foods. It was brought to Europe in the 16th century and considered a symbol of conquest and victory in battle. Victorian women later used it in tussie mussies to ward off bad smells.
Types of Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums come in three types: dwarf, semi-trailing, and single flower climbing.
Dwarf types are bushy and compact and include the cultivars ‘Alaska’, ‘Empress of India,’ ‘Strawberries and Cream,’ and ‘Whirlybird.’
Semi-trailing types reach a length of two to three feet, making them ideal for hanging baskets. The Gleam series is a good choice here, having been named an All-America Selections winner in 1935.
The single flowering climbing types like ‘Jewel of Africa’ send out six to eight foot runners that climb trellises like vines. Colors of this type are bright and range from yellow and orange to rose and crimson. Vines are strong and have fragrant flowers.
Growing Nasturtium from Seed:
Nasturtium is one of the easiest flowers to grow from seed. The best flowering will be in full sun, but they will tolerate partial shade. Seeds can be sown directly in the garden beginning in late May or start the seeds indoors to get a good head start on the season. However, as nasturtiums do not fare well when transplanted, use peat pots and plant these directly in the soil.
Soil:
Nasturtiums are not choosy about their soil, but, given a choice, do prefer a light, sandy soil. Don’t spoil them with rich, fertile soil and fertilizers as this will only result in lush foliage and few blooms.
A Good Choice for a Child’s Garden:
The large seeds of nasturtiums are easily held by tiny fingers, making them a good flower for children to help plant. In addition, the seeds germinate quickly and plants grow rapidly, so children can see the results of their nurturing soon.
Another great herb for children to grow is cress, especially when the kids grow these nutritious microgreens as quick-growing cress egg heads.
Only a small space is needed to provide a child with his or her own garden. Even a single foot square container can become a spring-to-fall garden. In the early spring, sow fast growing seeds like lettuce and radishes with the nasturtiums. By the time they are harvested, the nasturtiums will be ready to bloom until fall.
Edible Nasturtiums: See SownSow’s post on 10 Unbelievable Ways to Cook with Nasturtiums, from making nasturtium butter or nasturtium pesto to nasturtium wraps, capers, salads and mini quiches.
If you like nasturtiums, chances are you also love petunias. Here are some excellent Commonsense Tips for Growing Petunias as well as How to Grow Beautiful Gerbera Daisies.
Resources: Dr. Leonard Perry, Extension Professor, University of Vermont
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