Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums

August 29, 2024

Introduction

So you want to grow nasturtiums? Easy. The nasturtium is grown as a natural pest control or for harvesting adorable edible leaves and flowers. They are drought tolerant, so no stress on your watering constraints. Their many different colors will elevate your take out sushi with ease.

The What

Nasturtiums are a delightful addition to any urban garden, especially for those looking to add a touch of elegance and functionality. These vibrant annual flowers, known for their rich hues ranging from fiery reds to sunny yellows, bring a lively burst of color to your garden. They are entirely edible, with leaves, flowers, and seeds offering a peppery flavor that elevates salads and garnishes. Beyond their aesthetic and culinary appeal, nasturtiums serve a practical purpose by attracting aphids and other pests away from your prized plants, acting as a natural pest control measure​

The Why

In the bustling urban environment of NYC, where space is a luxury, nasturtiums shine as a versatile and practical choice for gardeners. Their ability to thrive in containers makes them perfect for balconies, rooftops, terraces, and even indoor hydroponic systems. These charming flowers not only enhance the visual appeal of your garden but also attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, boosting the productivity of nearby crops such as arugula, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Additionally, nasturtiums help deter pests like aphids and whiteflies, reducing the need for chemical interventions and supporting a more sustainable and healthy urban garden​

Sunlight Requirements

Nasturtiums need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Indoors: Can be grown in pots with bright light or hydroponically using grow lights for 10-12 hours.

Water Requirements

Keep soil consistently moist. Indoors, monitor soil moisture frequently; outdoors, water regularly, especially in full sun conditions. Mulching helps retain moisture.

Temperature Tolerance

Nasturtiums are a cool weather crop and prefer 55-75°F, ideally 60-65°F. Plant outdoors in early spring (April-May) in NYC zone 7b. Cool temperatures encourage lush foliage and blooms.

Container Size

Indoors: 8-10" wide, 10" deep, 2 gallons or hydroponically; Outdoors: 10-12" wide, 10-12" deep, 3-5 gallons

Best Soil Mix

Nasturtiums prefer well-draining potting mix with organic compost or cow manure. Indoors, mix potting soil with worm castings, layering 1" worm castings on top.

How to Add Fertilizer

Apply balanced, water-soluble fertilizer 10-10-10 every 4-6 weeks. Organic options: compost, fish emulsion, bone meal. Consistent fertilization promotes healthy foliage and prolific blooming.

Growth Duration

Nasturtiums are ready for harvest 50-70 days after planting, or when the flowers are fully open. The leaves are edible and can be harvested anytime. Nasturtiums typically live for 4 to 6 months.

How To Trim

Pick flowers frequently to encourage more blooms. Regular harvesting helps maintain plant health and ensures a supply of peppery, colorful flowers. The leaves can be grown as microgreens as well.

Growing Challenges

Pests (Aphids): Wash leaves with soapy water or release green lacewing larvae. Wilting: Water consistently. Yellow Leaves: Moderate watering. Slow Growth: Use balanced fertilizer. Diseases (Powdery Mildew): Improve air circulation.

Interesting Facts

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Blog
Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums

So you want to grow nasturtiums? Easy. The nasturtium is grown as a natural pest control or for harvesting adorable edible leaves and flowers. They are drought tolerant, so no stress on your watering constraints. Their many different colors will elevate your take out sushi with ease.

Nasturtiums

Here are the essential Nasturtiums basics you need.

Sunlight Requirements

Nasturtiums need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Indoors: Can be grown in pots with bright light or hydroponically using grow lights for 10-12 hours.

Water Requirements

Keep soil consistently moist. Indoors, monitor soil moisture frequently; outdoors, water regularly, especially in full sun conditions. Mulching helps retain moisture.

Temperature Tolerance

Nasturtiums are a cool weather crop and prefer 55-75°F, ideally 60-65°F. Plant outdoors in early spring (April-May) in NYC zone 7b. Cool temperatures encourage lush foliage and blooms.

Container Size

Indoors: 8-10" wide, 10" deep, 2 gallons or hydroponically; Outdoors: 10-12" wide, 10-12" deep, 3-5 gallons

Best Soil Mix

Nasturtiums prefer well-draining potting mix with organic compost or cow manure. Indoors, mix potting soil with worm castings, layering 1" worm castings on top.

Fertilizing

Apply balanced, water-soluble fertilizer 10-10-10 every 4-6 weeks. Organic options: compost, fish emulsion, bone meal. Consistent fertilization promotes healthy foliage and prolific blooming.

Growth Duration

Nasturtiums are ready for harvest 50-70 days after planting, or when the flowers are fully open. The leaves are edible and can be harvested anytime. Nasturtiums typically live for 4 to 6 months.

How To Trim

Pick flowers frequently to encourage more blooms. Regular harvesting helps maintain plant health and ensures a supply of peppery, colorful flowers. The leaves can be grown as microgreens as well.

Growing Challenges

Pests (Aphids): Wash leaves with soapy water or release green lacewing larvae. Wilting: Water consistently. Yellow Leaves: Moderate watering. Slow Growth: Use balanced fertilizer. Diseases (Powdery Mildew): Improve air circulation.

The Many Varieties of Nasturtiums

There are around 10-15 varieties of arugula gardeners commonly grow. One of the perks of growing arugula at home is the opportunity to experiment with different varieties that you won't find at the grocery store.

You can get a variety pack with 8 types of basil here.

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