Tropaeolum majus
Annual
An old-fashioned favourite for covering garden beds and open areas with a carpet of colour. This compact variety has semi-double, ruffled blooms that open in sparkling colours. The edible flowers are beautiful as a garnish, or added to salads for a spicy, peppery taste. The large seeds are easy for children to sow. Plants tolerate poor soil.
Light | Part shade |
Bloom time | All season |
Plant spacing | 8-12 inches |
Planting depth | 1 inch |
Days to germination | 8 to 12 |
Plant height | 12 inches |
Gardener’s Notes: Sow seed directly outdoors in spring after last frost when temperatures are evenly above 50F (10C). Plant in well-drained soil, spacing seeds 1 inch deep and 4 to 6 inches apart. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, thin plants to stand 8 to 12 inches apart, so they have room to grow and spread. Avoid over-fertilizing as plants actually produce more flowers without added fertilizer in average garden soil. In very hot summer climates, plant in light or partial shade. Nasturtiums bloom best when kept well-watered.