Nasturtiums are more than just a pretty face in the garden. With their vibrant colors, distinctive shapes, and delightful peppery flavor, they are a treasure for any backyard enthusiast. As both an ornamental and culinary plant, nasturtiums can elevate your garden’s aesthetic and your kitchen’s offerings. This article explores the many reasons to grow nasturtiums, how to care for them, and the delicious ways to enjoy every edible part of this remarkable plant.
What Are Nasturtiums?
Nasturtiums belong to the family Tropaeolaceae and are native to Central and South America. These annual plants are known for their vibrant flowers, which can be found in shades of yellow, orange, red, and even deep purple. They can be divided into two main types: bush and climbing varieties. Bush nasturtiums grow compactly, making them perfect for borders or pots, while climbing nasturtiums can be trained to grow up trellises or fences.
Aside from their ornamental appeal, nasturtiums are entirely edible. The leaves, flowers, and seeds all boast culinary uses and are packed with vitamins and nutrients. They are also a fantastic choice for organic gardening, as they attract beneficial insects and can deter pests from other plants.
The Benefits of Growing Nasturtiums
1. Aesthetic Appeal
Nasturtiums add a splash of color and vibrancy to any garden. Their unique flowers can serve as a focal point, providing a beautiful contrast to green foliage. Whether used in borders, containers, or as ground cover, nasturtiums enhance the visual interest of your landscape.
2. Culinary Versatility
Every part of the nasturtium plant is edible, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. The leaves have a peppery flavor reminiscent of arugula, making them a fantastic addition to salads, sandwiches, and pesto. The bright flowers can be used as a garnish or added to salads for a pop of color. Additionally, the immature seeds can be pickled to create a caper-like condiment.
3. Nutritional Value
Nasturtiums are rich in nutrients, including vitamin C, beta-carotene, and various antioxidants. Their high levels of glucosinolates, compounds associated with cancer prevention, make them a beneficial choice for your health. Incorporating nasturtiums into your diet can enhance your nutritional intake while adding exciting flavors.
4. Companion Planting
Nasturtiums serve as excellent companion plants in the garden. They attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies, which help control aphid populations. Additionally, their strong scent can deter pests like whiteflies and squash bugs, making them a natural form of pest control. Planting nasturtiums near vegetables and other flowers can create a more harmonious garden ecosystem.
5. Easy to Grow
Nasturtiums are remarkably easy to grow, making them ideal for novice gardeners. They thrive in various soil types and can tolerate poor soils, though they prefer well-draining, moderately fertile soil. With minimal care, nasturtiums can produce abundant blooms and foliage, adding beauty to your garden with little effort.
Growing Nasturtiums: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Choosing the Right Variety
Before planting, consider which variety of nasturtium will suit your garden best. The two main types are:
- Bush Nasturtiums: These compact varieties grow about 12 to 18 inches tall and are perfect for container gardening or as border plants.
- Climbing Nasturtiums: These can reach heights of 6 to 10 feet, making them ideal for trellises, fences, or arbors.
Some popular varieties include:
- ‘Empress of India’: Known for its deep red flowers and dark green foliage.
- ‘Alaska’: Features variegated leaves and bright blooms, offering a stunning contrast.
- ‘Jewel Mix’: A colorful blend of various flower colors, perfect for adding vibrancy to any garden.
2. Preparing the Soil
Nasturtiums prefer well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Before planting, amend your soil with compost to improve fertility and drainage. If planting in containers, choose a high-quality potting mix that allows for good drainage. While nasturtiums can thrive in poor soil, they benefit from a little organic matter.
3. Sowing Seeds
Nasturtiums can be grown from seeds, which can be sown directly into the garden after the last frost date. Here’s how to do it:
- Timing: Sow seeds in spring when the soil has warmed, or start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date.
- Spacing: Plant seeds about 1 inch deep and 10 to 12 inches apart for bush varieties or 12 to 18 inches apart for climbing varieties. If planting in containers, allow at least 6 inches of space between seeds.
- Watering: Water the seeds gently after planting to encourage germination. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds sprout.
4. Providing Sunlight
Nasturtiums thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ideally, they should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. In hotter climates, a bit of afternoon shade can help prevent the plants from wilting in extreme heat.
5. Watering and Fertilizing
While nasturtiums are drought-tolerant, they perform best with regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water the plants at the soil level to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
Avoid heavy fertilization, as too many nutrients can lead to excessive leaf growth and fewer flowers. A balanced, organic fertilizer applied sparingly will suffice.
6. Pest and Disease Management
Nasturtiums are generally resilient, but they can occasionally fall victim to pests like aphids and caterpillars. Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of infestation, and remove pests by hand if necessary. Introducing beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, can help manage pest populations naturally.
Fungal diseases can be minimized by ensuring good air circulation around your plants and avoiding overhead watering. If you notice any signs of disease, promptly remove affected leaves to prevent spreading.
7. Harvesting Nasturtiums
One of the most rewarding aspects of growing nasturtiums is the ability to enjoy their edible parts:
- Leaves: Harvest leaves throughout the growing season for use in salads, sandwiches, and dressings. The younger leaves tend to be more tender and flavorful.
- Flowers: Pick flowers when they are fully open to use as a colorful garnish or in salads. They have a slightly sweet, peppery flavor.
- Seeds: If you plan to use nasturtium seeds as a caper substitute, harvest them when they are still green and immature. Pickle them in a vinegar solution for a tangy addition to dishes.
8. Extending the Season
To prolong your nasturtium harvest, consider growing them as a continuous crop. Succession planting every few weeks can provide a steady supply of leaves and flowers throughout the season. Additionally, you can save seeds from your nasturtiums for future planting. Allow some seed pods to mature on the plant, then collect them and store them in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to sow.
Culinary Uses for Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums add a unique flavor and visual appeal to various dishes. Here are some creative ways to incorporate them into your meals:
1. Salads
Nasturtium leaves and flowers can elevate a simple salad with their peppery flavor and vibrant colors. Toss whole flowers and leaves into your favorite salad mix for a delightful twist.
2. Sandwiches and Wraps
Use nasturtium leaves in place of lettuce in sandwiches and wraps for an added kick. They pair well with cream cheese, hummus, or spreads.
3. Pesto
Blend nasturtium leaves, nuts (like walnuts or pine nuts), garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil to create a unique pesto. Use it as a pasta sauce, sandwich spread, or dip.
4. Garnishes
Nasturtium flowers can be used as a stunning garnish for soups, entrees, or desserts. Their bright colors and unique shapes will impress your guests.
5. Pickled Nasturtium Seeds
Prepare a caper substitute by pickling immature nasturtium seeds in a vinegar brine. Use them in recipes that call for capers, adding a peppery zing to dishes.
Conclusion
Nasturtiums are a stunning and practical addition to any backyard. With their beautiful blooms, versatility in the kitchen, and numerous health benefits, they offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a novice gardener or a seasoned expert, nasturtiums are easy to grow and rewarding to enjoy.
So why wait? Start planting nasturtiums in your garden today, and discover the joy of incorporating this vibrant, edible beauty into your life. Your backyard and your meals will thank you!
Join the Movement!
Embrace the joy of gardening and share your nasturtium journey with others! Use hashtags like #NasturtiumLove, #EdibleGarden, #GrowYourOwn, and #GardenToTable to connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts and inspire others to appreciate the beauty and flavor of nasturtiums. Happy gardening!