planting nasturtium seeds Dwarf Nasturtium Seeds

planting nasturtium seeds Dwarf Nasturtium SeedsAdd vibrant color to your garden with Dwarf Jewel Mix Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus), a compact variety known for its bright, jewel toned flowers in shades of red, orange, yellow, and cream. These cheerful blooms not only brighten up garden beds and borders but also make an excellent choice for edging and hanging baskets. Both the flowers and leaves are edible, with a peppery flavor that adds a unique twist to salads and garnishes. This easy to grow

Add vibrant color to your garden with Dwarf Jewel Mix Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus), a compact variety known for its bright, jewel-toned flowers in shades of red, orange, yellow, and cream. These cheerful blooms not only brighten up garden beds and borders but also make an excellent choice for edging and hanging baskets. Both the flowers and leaves are edible, with a peppery flavor that adds a unique twist to salads and garnishes.

This easy-to-grow variety thrives in average garden soil and requires minimal care. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can result in lush foliage with fewer blooms. To encourage continuous flowering, remove spent flowers regularly. If you're dealing with dreary winter days, consider growing these nasturtiums indoors in a sunny south window for a splash of color. Nasturtiums are also a great companion plant, helping to deter pests like aphids and whiteflies.

* SCROLL DOWN FOR DETAILED GROWING INFO *

All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:

• Heirloom

• Organic

• Non-GMO

• Open Pollinated

• Untreated

• US Grown

• Growing instructions included

• Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.

Sustainable Packaging & Shipping:

• NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)

• All orders are carefully packed and shipped with tracking via USPS First Class (or Priority, if selected) in padded ECOENCLOSE recycled and reusable mailers, or recycled boxes to protect your items in transit.

Most orders ship out the same or next business day! Please note that this time may be extended during peak season.

• FREE SHIPPING on all orders of $35 or more. Flat Rate shipping no matter how many packets you order.

* DIRECTIONS *

Common Names: Dwarf Jewel Mix Nasturtium

Latin Name: Tropaeolum majus

Type: Flowering Vine

Life Cycle: Annual in most climates; tender perennial in USDA zones 10 and warmer

USDA Zones: 2 - 11 (grown as an annual in most zones)

Stratification: Not required

Germination Ease: Easy

Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Moisture: Prefers well-drained soil; drought-tolerant once established

Soil: Average garden soil with loose, light texture

Height: 8-12 inches

Spread: 12-18 inches

Color: Mixed jewel tones in shades of red, orange, yellow, and cream

Bloom Season: Late spring to frost

Companion Plants: Works well with cabbage, broccoli, and radishes. Helps deter pests like whiteflies and aphids.

Potential Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets

Climate Adaptability: Adaptable to a range of climates; frost-sensitive

~ Sowing ~

When to Start Outside: 1-2 weeks after your average last frost date, when soil temperature is 55°F or warmer.

When to Start Inside: Not recommended; direct sowing is preferable.

Pre-Sowing Treatment: For best results, soak seeds in water for 12-24 hours before planting to soften the seed coat and encourage faster germination.

Planting Depth: Sow seeds ½ inch deep.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Light and Temperature: Nasturtiums prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Germination: Seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days.

~ Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors ~

Timing: Direct sowing is recommended, but if starting indoors, transplant after the risk of frost has passed.

Location: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.

Spacing: Space plants 10-12 inches apart to allow for adequate growth and air circulation.

Transplanting: Gently transplant seedlings into the prepared soil, ensuring the root ball is covered and the plant is stable. Water well after planting.

~ Growing ~

Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Nasturtiums prefer drier conditions once established but may need additional water during prolonged dry spells.

Fertilizing: Avoid fertilizing as this encourages foliage growth over flowers.

Pest and Disease Management: Nasturtiums are generally pest-resistant but can attract aphids. Use organic pest control methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.

Maintenance: Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming. Plants will spread and fill in large spaces, but because they lack tendrils, they should be guided if grown vertically.

~ Harvesting ~

When to Harvest: Harvest flowers, leaves, and seeds as needed throughout the growing season.

How to Harvest: Pinch off flowers and leaves as needed, taking care not to damage the plant. Harvest seeds when they are mature and firm.

Edible Uses: Both the flowers and leaves are edible and add a peppery flavor to salads, sandwiches, and garnishes. Seeds can be pickled as a substitute for capers.

Drying and Storing: Nasturtium seeds can be dried and stored for future planting or culinary use.

~ Seed Saving ~

Allow the seeds to mature on the plant before harvesting. Once dry, store the seeds in a cool, dry place for future planting.

~ Additional Information ~

Forage for Pollinators: Nasturtium flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Origin: Native to South America, particularly the Andes region.

Nomenclature: The common name "nasturtium" comes from the Latin words for "nose-twister," reflecting the plant’s peppery flavor.

History: Nasturtiums have a long history of being used for both culinary and medicinal purposes, with the entire plant, including flowers, leaves, and seeds, being edible.

Potential Toxicity: Non-toxic and safe for consumption by humans and pets.

Climate Adaptability: Thrives in warm climates and can be grown as a tender perennial in USDA zones 10 and warmer.