General information about Nasturtium Seeds
- Sowing Season: Early Spring
- Germination: 8-15 Days
- Harvest in: 60-80 Days
What’s in the Box
- Nasturtium Seeds
- Sowing instructions printed on backside of Seed Packet
- Recyclable Pouch
Introduction to Nasturtium
Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) are beloved for their cheerful, trumpet-shaped flowers and unique foliage. Native to South and Central America, these low-maintenance plants are perfect for adding color and character to gardens, containers, and hanging baskets. Available in a wide range of hues, from fiery reds and oranges to gentle yellows and creams, nasturtiums are a gardener’s delight. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, nasturtium plants offer edible flowers, leaves, and seeds, making them a favorite for both ornamental and culinary uses. Their ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies adds to their ecological value.
Guide to the Germination Process, Soil & Fertilizer, Watering & Pest Control Requirements for Nasturtium Seeds:
▶ Seeds Germination Process
- Seed Preparation: Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 12 to 24 hours before planting. This step softens the hard outer shell and promotes faster germination. Discard any seeds that float, as they are less likely to germinate.
- Planting Location: Choose a sunny spot in your garden or a well-lit area if planting in containers. Nasturtiums prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Sowing the Seeds: Sow the seeds directly into the soil, as nasturtiums do not transplant well due to their sensitive root systems. Plant each seed about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) deep and space them 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) apart.
- Covering and Watering: Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water gently to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Maintain consistent moisture until the seeds germinate, but avoid overwatering, as this can cause rot.
- Sprouting: Expect to see sprouts within 7 to 14 days. Ensure the seedlings have adequate light to prevent them from becoming leggy.
▶ Soil & Fertilizer Requirement
- Nasturtiums are adaptable to a variety of soil types but thrive in well-draining, moderately fertile soil. They prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.1 to 7.8. Interestingly, nasturtiums perform better in poorer soils; overly rich soil can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms.
- Soil Preparation: Before sowing, loosen the soil to ensure proper aeration. Mix in organic matter like compost for better drainage and nutrients.
- Fertilizer Needs: Avoid excessive fertilization, as it may reduce flower production. A light application of balanced, all-purpose fertilizer at the time of planting is sufficient. Use it sparingly during the growing season.
▶ Watering Requirement
- Nasturtiums prefer consistent moisture but are relatively drought-tolerant once established. Proper watering is crucial for healthy growth and abundant flowering.
- During Germination: Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy to encourage seed germination.
- After Establishment: Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Container Plants: Monitor container-grown nasturtiums closely, as pots dry out faster than garden beds. Water more frequently during hot weather.
▶ Pest Control Requirement
- Aphids: Aphids are common on nasturtiums. Use insecticidal soap or a strong jet of water to dislodge them.
- Introduce natural predators like ladybugs to control aphid populations.
- Whiteflies: Yellow sticky traps can help capture whiteflies. Neem oil sprays are effective in deterring these pests.
- Caterpillars: Handpick caterpillars from the leaves and stems. Use natural deterrents like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) for severe infestations.
- Fungal Issues: Powdery mildew may appear in overly humid conditions. Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimize this issue.
Alternate Names
- Hindi: नास्टर्टियम फूल के बीज
- Bengali: নাসর্টিয়াম ফুলের বীজ
- Marathi: नॅस्टर्टियम फ्लॉवर बियाणे
- Telugu: నాస్టూర్టియం పూల విత్తనాలు
- Tamil: நாஸ்டர்டியம் மலர் விதைகள்
- Gujarati: નાસ્તુર્ટિયમ ફૂલના બીજ
- Kannada: ನಸ್ಟರ್ಷಿಯಮ್ ಹೂವಿನ ಬೀಜಗಳು
- Odia: ନାଷ୍ଟୁରିୟମ୍ ଫୁଲ ବିହନ
- Malayalam: നസ്റ്റുർട്ടിയം പുഷ്പ വിത്തുകൾ
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