Nasturtium Flower Seeds

West Coast Seeds, Nasturtium Flower Seeds - Additional Information

How to Grow Nasturtiums

Planting Schedule
Kickstart your nasturtiums by sowing seeds in peat or coir pots about 2-4 weeks prior to the last expected frost for an early start, or opt for direct sowing outdoors a week after the last frost.

For a continuous bloom, keep sowing every two weeks into early summer. The ideal soil temperature for seed germination is between 12-18°C (55-65°F), with seeds typically sprouting within 7-12 days, although outdoor sowing may extend this period slightly.


Seed Starting:
Plant seeds at a depth of 5mm to 1cm (¼”-½”). For those starting seeds indoors, ensure the seeds are kept in darkness until germination, then moved to a brightly lit area to promote healthy growth.

Space the smaller nasturtium varieties 15-30cm (6-12 inches) apart, while larger varieties, such as Tall Single, should be spaced 60-90cm (24-36 inches) apart to allow ample room for development.


Growing:
Nasturtiums flourish in conditions that might hinder other plants. They prefer poor to average, slightly acidic, well-drained soil and require regular watering in dry conditions. Avoid the application of fertilizers, as nasturtiums naturally produce lush foliage and vibrant blooms without additional nutrients.

The key to thriving nasturtiums is embracing their preference for simplicity. This makes them ideal for gardeners seeking minimal maintenance and maximum impact.

Nasturtiums Pests & Diseases

Aphids:
Aphids are attracted to the succulent growth of nasturtiums. These small, sap-sucking pests can curl the leaves and weaken the plant.

A strong jet of water from the hose can dislodge aphids from nasturtiums. For more severe infestations, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, focusing on the undersides of leaves where aphids congregate.

Introducing or encouraging natural predators, like ladybugs and lacewings, can also help control aphid populations.


Powdery Mildew:
This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on leaves, eventually causing them to turn yellow and die.

Ensure good air circulation around plants and avoid overhead watering to minimize leaf wetness. At the first sign of powdery mildew, apply a mixture of milk and water (1 part milk to 9 parts water) or a baking soda solution (1 tablespoon and 1 teaspoon of mild soap mixed in 1 gallon of water) to affected areas. Remove and destroy severely infected leaves.