Nasturtiums are vibrant annual flowers with rounded leaves and bold blooms in shades of orange, red, and yellow. They are fast-growing, easy to care for, and add a cheerful splash of color to garden beds, containers, and hanging baskets. Both leaves and flowers are edible, making them a favorite for ornamental and culinary use.
 
Uses:
Ornamental: Perfect for borders, containers, and trailing over edges.
Culinary: Leaves and flowers have a peppery flavor, great for salads and garnishes.
Beneficial: Attracts pollinators and acts as a trap crop for aphids.
 
How to Plant:
Timing: Direct sow outdoors after the last frost; Nasturtiums dislike transplanting.
Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil (too rich soil reduces blooms).
Sunlight: Full sun for best flowering; tolerates partial shade.
Spacing: 10–12 inches apart.
Germination: 7–10 days at 65–70°F.
Watering: Moderate; avoid overwatering.
 
Companion Planting Tips:
Good Companions: Tomatoes, cucumbers, and beans (Nasturtiums repel pests and attract beneficial insects).
Avoid: Plants that require heavy feeding, as Nasturtiums prefer lean soil.