The humble nasturtium isn’t just a pretty face in your garden – these versatile flowers offer incredible value for both ornamental and practical purposes. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, nasturtiums deserve a prime spot in your growing space.
Beautiful, Edible Blooms That Keep on Giving
Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) produce vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers in warm hues ranging from deep crimson to bright yellow. But their beauty goes beyond aesthetics – every part of the nasturtium plant is edible, from the peppery flowers to the tender leaves. The blooms add a splash of color and spicy kick to summer salads, while the leaves provide a watercress-like flavor perfect for pestos and garnishes.
Natural Garden Helpers
These hardworking plants serve multiple purposes in your garden ecosystem:
- Pest Management: Their strong scent naturally repels aphids, whiteflies, and other common garden pests
- Companion Planting: They work beautifully alongside vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and brassicas
- Soil Health: Their spreading habit provides living mulch that helps retain moisture and prevent weed growth
- Pollinator Attraction: The bright blooms act as natural magnets for beneficial bees and butterflies
Easy-Care Plants for Every Garden
Even novice gardeners can succeed with nasturtiums. These forgiving plants thrive in average soil and actually produce more flowers in less fertile conditions. They adapt well to both container and in-ground growing, making them perfect for:
- Window boxes and hanging baskets
- Vegetable garden borders
- Rock gardens and slopes
- Children’s gardens and sensory spaces
Growing Tips for Success
Start seeds directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Choose a spot with:
- Full sun to light shade exposure
- Well-draining soil
- Adequate spacing (12-18 inches between plants)
- Regular watering until established
Avoid overfeeding with nitrogen fertilizers, which can result in lush foliage but fewer blooms. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season.
Year-Round Value
Beyond their growing season, nasturtiums continue to provide benefits:
- Seeds can be collected and saved for next year’s garden
- Flowers can be pressed for crafts and decorative projects
- Leaves and blooms can be preserved through drying or freezing
- Plants readily self-seed, providing volunteer plants in future seasons
Environmental Benefits
In our changing climate, nasturtiums offer several eco-friendly advantages:
- Drought tolerance once established
- Support for native pollinator populations
- Natural pest control without chemicals
- Soil improvement through organic matter
The Bottom Line
Incorporating nasturtiums into your garden design brings multiple rewards – from their stunning visual impact to their practical uses in the kitchen and garden. These versatile plants offer an excellent return on investment, requiring minimal care while providing maximum benefits throughout the growing season.
Ready to add these garden workhorses to your landscape? Start with a few plants and watch as they become an indispensable part of your gardening toolkit. Your garden (and your dinner plate) will thank you.
Remember: The best time to plant nasturtiums is spring, after the last frost date in your area. With proper care, you’ll enjoy months of colorful blooms and countless creative culinary possibilities.
