Nasturtium

Nasturtiums thrive in well-drained, relatively lean soil around pH 6.0-7.0. Skip rich manure and nitrogen-heavy fertilizer, which encourage leaves at the expense of flowers, and provide support for climbing varieties.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Even moisture; about 1 in/week including rain

Spacing

12 in

First harvest

50–65 days

Tips

• Sow seeds 1/2-1 inch deep after frost danger passes and thin bush types to 10-12 inches apart.
• Water when the top inch of soil dries, allowing drainage rather than keeping roots saturated.
• Train climbing varieties onto a trellis and pinch tips if you want bushier growth.
• Leaves and flowers are edible; avoid excess fertilizer and pesticide-treated flowers.
• Inspect for aphid colonies and pick freshly opened flowers and young leaves frequently.

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