Summary
Nasturtium ( Tropaeolum majus ) is a various flora that offer both culinary and decorative benefit . Itsvibrant flowersand peppery leave add color and flavor to salads , sandwiches , and other bag . With its ease of cultivation , nasturtium is an excellent selection for gardeners of all levels . Thiscomprehensive guidewill provide you with all the essential information you need to get and plant nasturtium successfully .
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Nasturtium thrives infull sunorpartial shadeand well - drained soil . The territory should be slack and productive , with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 . Before planting , amend the grime withorganic mattersuch as compost or manure to improve its natality and drain .
Planting Nasturtium Seeds
Nasturtium seeds can besown directlyin the garden after the lastfrost escort . Sow the seed 1/2 inch thick and 6 - 8 inches aside . Water the seeds well and keep thesoil moistuntil germination , which usually occurs within 7 - 14 days .
Growing Nasturtium Plants
Nasturtium plants are tight - growing andrequire minimal care . body of water theplants regularly , especially during hot and dry weather condition . Fertilize the plant life monthly with a balanced plant food topromote healthy growthand efflorescence .
Harvesting Nasturtium Leaves and Flowers
genus Nasturtium leave and flowers can be harvested throughout the growing season . The leaves can be used fresh or dry out , while the flowers can be used fresh or as a garnish . To harvest the leaves , only pinchthem off the flora . To harvest the flowers , cut the stems just below the flower head .
Controlling Pests and Diseases
Nasturtium is relatively pest - repellent , but it can be susceptible to aphid , whitefly , and spider hint . To ensure these pests , useinsecticidal soaporneem oil . Nasturtium is also susceptible to downy mildew , a fungal disease that causes yellowing and wilt of the leaf . To prevent pubescent mould , piss the industrial plant at the base and obviate overhead watering .
Using Nasturtium in the Kitchen
Nasturtium bequeath and flowers have apeppery flavorthat adds aunique touchto salads , sandwiches , and other dishes . The leaf can be used unused or dried , while the flowers can be used fresh or as a garnish . Nasturtium is also a secure root of vitamin C , iron , and Ca .
Using Nasturtium as a Companion Plant
Nasturtium is anexcellent associate plantfor many other vegetables . It helps torepel aphids , whitefly , and other gadfly . Nasturtium is also agood trap cropfor squash bug , which are attracted to its leave-taking .
Takeaways: Embrace the Beauty and Benefits of Nasturtium
Growing and planting genus Nasturtium is a rewarding experience that extend both culinary and ornamental reward . With itsvibrant flowers , peppery leaves , and rest of finish , nasturtium is a versatile plant that can enhance any garden . Whether you ’re aseasoned gardeneror a beginner , this usher has provided you with the indispensable noesis and technique to grow and works nasturtium successfully .
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q : When is the best time to plant genus Nasturtium seeds?A : Nasturtium seedscan besown directlyin the garden after the last freeze date . Q : How deep should I plant nasturtium seeds?A : Plant nasturtium seeds1/2inch deepand 6 - 8 inches apart . Q : How often should I irrigate nasturtium plants?A : H2O nasturtium institute regularly , particularly during blistering and ironical atmospheric condition . Q : How can Icontrol pestson genus Nasturtium plants?A : Useinsecticidal soaporneem oiltocontrol pestssuch as aphid , whiteflies , and spider hint . Q : Can I eat nasturtium flowers?A : Yes , nasturtium flowersare edible and can be used invigorated or as a garnish .
