Tropaeolum majus
Also known as: Indian Cress, Garden Nasturtium, Monks Cress
Sun Requirements
full sun
Water Needs
low
Growing Zones
2-11
Days to Harvest
35 days
Planting Depth
1/2 to 1 inch
Spacing
10-12 inches (bush), 2-3 feet (trailing)
Nasturtiums are vibrant, easy-to-grow edible flowers that bring both beauty and function to the garden. These cheerful plants produce stunning trumpet-shaped blooms in shades of red, orange, yellow, and cream, while their lily-pad-like leaves cascade gracefully from containers or spread as groundcover. Beyond their ornamental value, nasturtiums are completely edible with a peppery, watercress-like flavor that adds zest to salads and garnishes. As companion plants, they're invaluable for their ability to repel aphids, whiteflies, and cucumber beetles while attracting beneficial predators. These fast-growing annuals thrive in poor soil conditions where other plants might struggle, making them perfect for beginning gardeners or challenging garden spots.
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Growing nasturtiums is remarkably simple, making them perfect for novice gardeners and children's gardens. These resilient plants actually prefer poor soil and minimal care, rewarding neglect with abundant blooms. They can be direct-seeded after the last frost or started indoors for earlier blooms. Nasturtiums come in both trailing varieties perfect for hanging baskets and compact bush types ideal for borders. Their fast growth rate means you'll see flowers within 35-50 days from seed. The key to success with nasturtiums is avoiding over-fertilization, which produces lush foliage at the expense of flowers, and ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Sow nasturtium seeds directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed to at least 55°F (13°C). Nick the hard seed coat with a file or soak seeds overnight to improve germination. Plant seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep and 10-12 inches apart for bush varieties or 2-3 feet apart for trailing types. Seeds germinate in 7-14 days. For earlier blooms, start seeds indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost in biodegradable pots to avoid transplant shock. Choose a location with full sun to partial shade – more sun produces more flowers while partial shade encourages leafier growth. Nasturtiums thrive in poor to average soil with good drainage; rich soil produces leaves over flowers.
Nasturtiums require minimal care once established. Water regularly until plants are growing strongly, then reduce watering – these plants prefer slightly dry conditions and too much water can lead to lush foliage but few flowers. Avoid fertilizing as nasturtiums bloom best in poor soil. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming, though allowing some seeds to form ensures self-sowing for next year. Trailing varieties may benefit from occasional guidance or support when grown vertically. Watch for aphids, which are attracted to nasturtiums – this is actually beneficial as they draw aphids away from other plants. Simply spray off with water or leave for ladybugs to feast on. Harvest flowers and leaves regularly for culinary use, which also promotes more blooming.
Discover which plants work best together to create a thriving, natural garden ecosystem
Nasturtiums are one of the most valuable companion plants in the garden, serving multiple roles as pest deterrents, trap crops, and beneficial insect attractors. Their strong scent confuses pests while their bright flowers draw in predatory insects that feed on common garden pests.
Solanum lycopersicum
Acts as a trap crop for aphids and repels whiteflies that commonly attack tomatoes
Benefits: Repels cucumber beetles and provides ground cover to retain moisture
Benefits: Deters cabbage worms and aphids while attracting beneficial insects
Benefits: Acts as a trap crop for aphids and flea beetles
Benefits: Repels bean beetles and provides living mulch around bean plants
Avoid because: Can compete for nutrients and may attract similar pests
Avoid because: May compete for space and nutrients with these heavy feeders
Explore our detailed guides above for everything you need to know about growing healthy, productive nasturtiums plants.
