by Nancy Baggett
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Nasturtiums--sometimes classified as flowers and sometimes as herbs-- have long been treasured by kitchen gardeners. These old-fashioned plants boast both bright, cheerful blooms and a pungent, watercress-like flavor and scent. Both the leaves and flowers can be tossed into salads for added zip and glorious color. |
Though eighteenth and nineteenth century kitchen gardeners often grew nasturtiums along fences or trellises, I find that the modern, compact varieties make wonderfully charming potted plants for sunny patios and decks. If planted in the right soil, they bloom constantly from early summer until fall. And, they don't mind at all if a few leaves and flowers are harvested for salads each week.
Here are some tips on growing your own nasturtium "crop":
Plant when all danger of frost is past, or get a jump ahead by starting your pots indoors in a basement or garage window. After three or four weeks, the plants will need to be moved outside, so plan accordingly. (It's fine if you get a late start; nasturtiums can actually be planted any time during the summer.)
Start your nasturtiums in large pots, as they don't like to be transplanted. I've found that they prefer fairly deep containers at least 6- 8-inches in diameter, and they seem even more comfortable in very large pots. Be sure the pots have ample drainage holes.
Despite directions to the contrary on some packets, I've found that the seeds can be sown closely together--only 4 or 5 inches apart. If necessary, I thin later--which simply means more nasturtiums for the salad bowl!
Nasturtiums bloom best in very poor soil. I use potting soil recycled from other plants of previous years, then mix in some sand and vermiculite to provide drainage and more bulk without adding nutrients.
Choose varieties marked "dwarf" or described as having compact growth; skip the "climbing" or "trailing" varieties unless you plan to train them up a railing or trellis. I've had particularly good luck with Empress of India, which has brilliant red-orange flowers and bluish leaves, and the dwarf "jewel" (mixed-color) packets with either solid green or variegated green leaves.
Most nasturtiums like full sun and dislike being water-logged. Some varieties
like to dry out between waterings, but others don't, especially if the
climate is very hot. Experiment to see what works best in your location.