Nasturtiums have fragrant, showy flowers ranging from yellow to red. It begins blooming in late spring and lasts into early fall. Although it grows in full sun, some protection from strong afternoon sun will be beneficial. Extended periods of strong sun will stress the plant. Areas where the summer temperatures are somewhat cooler will allow this plant to perform at its best. Its common name, Nasturtium, comes from the oil that the plants produce that is similar to watercress ( Nasturtium officinale ). An edible plant with a peppery taste, it is often used in salads. The leaves, seeds, as well as the flowers and flower pods are all edible. Nasturtiums grow best is poor soils. Fertilization can lead to more foliage and fewer flowers. Deadheading will prolong blooming. If growing indoors from seed, using peat or paper pots will help prevent transplant shock when moved outdoors and placed in the garden. They don't like being transplanted. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No serious issues, aphids, mealybugs and whteflies are occasional insects that may affect this plant. Its self seeding can cause the plant to spread.
Curated pairwise relationships between this plant and others in the library — who feeds
whom, who competes, who confuses the pests. Green reads as a good pairing, red as one to avoid.
No curated interactions recorded for this species yet.
Also noted by NC State
Related species the NC State Plant Toolbox flags for this plant — look-alikes to tell
apart, and plants that play a similar role in a planting. Ones we carry in the library are linked.