How To Grow & Care For Nasturtium Flowering Plant

Tropaeolum commonly known as Nasturtium is a genus of around 80 species of annual as well as perennial, herbaceous flowering plants that are native to South and Central America. They are often grown as companion plants for biological pest control and are known for funnel-shaped flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow and distinctive round leaves. Both the leaves and flowers are edible and have a peppery and slightly tangy flavor that can enhance salads, sandwiches, and other dishes.

They are a low-maintenance flowering plant that can prosper in well-draining soils under direct sunlight. You can plant them alongside borders, in hanging baskets, and as ground cover. Here is a complete step by step guide that you should follow to grow and care for a nasturtium flowering plant.

How To Grow & Care For Nasturtium Flowering Plant

Follow these guidelines carefully to care for your Nasturtium plant.

1. When To Plant: In USDA hardiness zones 2 to 8 you can plant them after the last spring frost, but in hot tropical regions, plant nasturtiums from November to December.

2. Sunlight: Nasturtium grows well in direct sunlight, however, it can also grow in bright indirect sunlight but try to keep it outside for larger and colorful blooms.

3. Soil & Potting Mix: You can plant them in well-drained, sandy loam soils rich in organic matter. For best results, prepare a potting mix with 40% vermicompost + 40% cocopeat + 20% river sand. You can also add a handful of neem cake fertilizer and a tablespoon of bonemeal to prepare this potting mix for the nasturtium plant.

4. Watering: Keep the soil a little moist but do not over water. Do not let the soil dry for a longer duration. Make sure to have drainage holes at the bottom of the pot so that excess water gets drained out from the pot.

5. Fertilizers: One month after planting you can start fertilizing the nasturtium plant. Fertilize with a handful of organic compost such as vermicompost or cow dung manure + 1 teaspoon of bonemeal per plant every 30 days. Do not overfertilize this plant as it is not a heavy feeder and will give good results with only our recommended amount of fertilizer.

6. Pests & Diseases: Generally, they are not much affected by pests, but in worse conditions, pests such as aphids and whiteflies can damage your nasturtium plant.

How To Propagate Nasturtium?

You can propagate nasturtium plants from seeds. Soak nasturtium seeds in water for an hour and sow them at a depth of half an inch and at least 6 to 8 inch apart. Water after sowing seeds and keep the soil a little moist but not soggy. Seeds will germinate in about 10 to 12 days. Sometimes you may consider new seedlings as weeds, that’s why avoid removing them instantly.

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