Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) are one of those plants that seem to have it all: they’re stunning, easy to grow, and best of all, completely edible. With their bright, vibrant flowers and trailing vines, nasturtiums can bring color and life to any garden. But beyond their beauty, this plant offers a world of culinary possibilities. From peppery leaves to tangy, pickled seeds, every part of the nasturtium can be used, making it not just an ornamental flower but a true garden-to-table delight.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner looking to add something unique to your backyard, nasturtiums are a fantastic choice. In this article, we’ll dive into why you should consider growing nasturtiums in your garden, how to grow them successfully, and how to incorporate them into your kitchen for an exciting culinary experience.
Why Nasturtiums Are a Must-Have in Your Garden
- Vibrant, Eye-Catching Blooms
Nasturtiums are known for their striking flowers that come in shades of red, orange, yellow, and cream. Their blossoms, often with contrasting dark centers, are like little bursts of sunshine that brighten up any garden space. They can grow in hanging baskets, as ground cover, or along garden borders, offering a versatile and colorful addition to your garden design. - Easy to Grow
Nasturtiums are incredibly easy to grow, making them a perfect plant for beginners. They thrive in poor soil, meaning you don’t need to go overboard with fertilizers or special treatments. In fact, too much fertilizer can reduce their flowering potential, so these plants are perfect for those looking for low-maintenance beauty. - Attract Pollinators
Nasturtiums are also fantastic at attracting pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies. Their bright colors and nectar-rich flowers make them an irresistible addition to any pollinator-friendly garden. As an added bonus, by planting nasturtiums near your vegetables, you can help improve the overall health of your garden by drawing in these beneficial insects. - A Culinary Delight
Not only are nasturtiums beautiful, but they’re also entirely edible. Every part of the plant is delicious and offers a peppery, tangy flavor reminiscent of watercress or arugula. The leaves, flowers, and even the seeds can all be incorporated into your meals, making nasturtiums an excellent choice for a garden that delivers both beauty and flavor.
How to Grow Nasturtiums in Your Backyard
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Nasturtiums thrive in full sun but will also tolerate partial shade. They prefer a sunny spot where they can get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Ideally, choose a spot with well-draining soil and space where they can spread out and grow freely. Nasturtiums are versatile and can grow in garden beds, containers, hanging baskets, or as ground cover.
Step 2: Soil Requirements
One of the best things about nasturtiums is that they don’t require rich, fertile soil. In fact, they tend to do best in slightly poor or average soil. If you have heavy, clay-like soil, you may want to improve the drainage with some compost or sand, but nasturtiums are hardy and do well without the need for extra attention to soil quality. They don’t require heavy fertilizing, as too much nutrition can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
Step 3: Planting Nasturtiums
You can start nasturtiums from seed directly in your garden or in containers. Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep and 6–12 inches apart. They germinate quickly, and you should see the first sprouts in 7–10 days. If you live in a region with cold winters, start the seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost, then transplant them outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.
Step 4: Watering and Care
Nasturtiums are relatively drought-tolerant, but they do need regular watering, especially during dry spells. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, as standing water can lead to root rot. If you’re growing nasturtiums in containers, ensure that the pot has good drainage to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.
Step 5: Pruning and Maintenance
Nasturtiums don’t require much maintenance, but you can prune the plants periodically to keep them tidy. If they are growing as ground cover or in containers, trim back any overgrowth that is not contributing to flowering. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, will encourage more blooms throughout the season.
How to Harvest and Use Nasturtiums in the Kitchen
One of the most exciting things about growing nasturtiums is how you can incorporate them into your cooking. The entire plant is edible, and each part offers a unique flavor and texture. Here’s how to make the most of your harvest.
1. Leaves
Nasturtium leaves are peppery and bold, making them a perfect addition to salads or sandwiches. You can use them in place of arugula or watercress for a spicy kick. Simply pick fresh leaves when they are young and tender, as the flavor can become more intense as the plant matures. If you prefer a milder taste, avoid harvesting the larger, older leaves.
2. Flowers
The brightly colored flowers of the nasturtium plant are not only beautiful but also flavorful. They have a slightly spicy, mustard-like flavor that makes them an excellent garnish for dishes. You can also add them to salads for a pop of color and a burst of flavor. The flowers can be used fresh or even preserved by drying them.
3. Seeds
When the flowers fade, nasturtiums produce small, round seed pods. These seeds can be pickled, much like capers, to create a tangy, salty treat. Simply soak the seeds in a brine solution for several weeks, and you’ll have a delightful snack or condiment for your meals. You can also save the seeds to grow next year’s nasturtiums or collect them for other culinary uses.
4. Leaves as Pesto
If you’re feeling adventurous, try using nasturtium leaves to make a unique pesto. Blend the leaves with garlic, nuts (such as pine nuts or walnuts), Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice for a zesty and flavorful twist on the classic basil pesto. It’s a great way to use up an abundance of leaves and add a punch of flavor to pasta dishes, sandwiches, or roasted vegetables.
5. Nasturtium Fritters
For an exciting recipe, dip the flowers in a light batter and fry them until crispy. This dish can be served as an appetizer or snack, with the delicate nasturtium flowers providing a crispy texture and peppery flavor.
Additional Benefits of Nasturtiums
In addition to their culinary uses, nasturtiums offer several benefits for the garden and beyond:
- Natural Pest Control
Nasturtiums act as a natural repellent for pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and squash bugs. By planting them near susceptible plants like tomatoes or cucumbers, you can help protect your garden from these common pests. - Attract Beneficial Insects
Their vibrant flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which are essential for ensuring the success of your other plants. Nasturtiums can be a great addition to a pollinator-friendly garden. - Edible Flowers for Decoration
The beautiful blooms of nasturtiums can be used as edible decorations for cakes, desserts, or cocktails. Their bold colors add a stunning touch to any dish.
Conclusion
Nasturtiums are truly one of the most versatile plants you can grow in your garden. With their vibrant blooms, easy care, and culinary potential, they are a must-have for any backyard gardener. Whether you’re looking to brighten your garden, attract pollinators, or add a unique flavor to your meals, nasturtiums deliver on all fronts.
So, if you’re ready to add a burst of color and flavor to your garden this spring, consider planting nasturtiums. With their striking appearance and wide array of edible parts, they’re sure to become a favorite in both your garden and your kitchen. Happy gardening!