Nasturtiums are annual flowers that are extremely easy to grow from seed, and when tucked into blank corners of the vegetable garden or perennial flower border, add near instant colour and interest. The blooms of nasturtiums are usually orange, yellow or red, although darker hues have also been cultivated. The blooms rise above round, bluish green leaves.
Both the leaves and flowers of the nasturtium plant are edible. The leaves have a peppery flavour and can be tossed into salads, and the flowers make a unique garnish to fresh foods. Tuck nasturtium seeds into the earth at the end of vegetable rows, or plant seedlings around the edge of the vegetable patch. They’re very pretty and can sprawl a great deal, making a nice low-growing bed seem very full.
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Although nasturtiums can be started in early spring indoors, the best method of growing them is by directly sowing the seeds about an inch deep in moist, well-drained soil. The seeds are large, round, easy to handle, and look like little brains! The large seedling will emerge within a couple of days, and much like beans, are fun and interesting for children to watch grow.
Seeds are widely available at most garden centres and due to the ease with which the seeds are collected from fading plants, are also available at most seed swaps.
Nasturtiums are available in several varieties, some of which are climbers, and some of which are not. Check the back of seed packages to confirm which type is being purchased. Climbing nasturtiums will need some support.
There are several heirloom varieties of nasturtiums available. One of the most well-known and readily available varieties of nasturtiums is called ‚”Jewel Mixed” and grows 12 to 16 inches in height. ‚”Black Velvet” nasturtiums sport a dark, wine-coloured bloom amid deep blue-green foliage. ‚”Empress of India” blooms are bright red, with deep green leaves. Search the Seed Savers catalogue online to discover and order one of these more unique types.
Nasturtiums tend to attract aphids. While this has a negative impact on the nasturtium plant, growing nasturtiums as an aphid trap is a wonderful organic method for handling aphids in the vegetable garden. Aphids on nasturtiums can be treated with insecticidal soap, but if the plant is damaged beyond repair, simply pull it from the bed and discard.
The blooms and leaves of the nasturtium plant are both edible. The large, flat, round leaves are ideal for eating on sandwiches, and add a wonderful, peppery flavour when tossed into salads. Substitute for watercress whenever possible. Nasturtium blooms are a beautiful garnish for salads or vegetable platters, and add a tropical flair to fruit salad.
Plan to include edible flowers such as nasturtiums in your vegetable garden this season!
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