Nasturtiums, with their vibrant colors and peppery taste, are the perfect addition to any garden. They're easy to grow, they're edible, and they're just plain fun. But if you're short on space or just want to add a splash of color to your patio, growing nasturtiums in pots is the way to go. So, grab your gardening gloves and let's get started!
Why Grow Nasturtiums in Pots?
Before we dive into the how, let's talk about the why. Nasturtiums are not just pretty faces. They're hardy, versatile, and have a host of benefits that make them a great choice for container gardening.
Firstly, nasturtiums are great for attracting beneficial insects to your garden. They're like the popular kids at school - everyone wants to hang out with them. This means that they can help to keep pest populations in check, which is always a plus.
Secondly, nasturtiums are edible. Yes, you heard right. You can eat them! Their leaves, flowers, and seeds all have a peppery flavor that can add a kick to salads and other dishes. So, not only do they look good, but they taste good too.
Lastly, nasturtiums are low maintenance. They don't need a lot of water or fertilizer, and they can tolerate a bit of neglect. This makes them a great choice for busy gardeners or those who are new to the world of gardening.
Choosing the Right Pot
When it comes to growing nasturtiums in pots, size matters. Nasturtiums like to spread out, so a pot that's too small will cramp their style. Aim for a pot that's at least 12 inches in diameter and 8 inches deep. This will give your nasturtiums plenty of room to grow and thrive.
Material-wise, you can't go wrong with terracotta or ceramic pots. These materials are breathable, which means they allow excess moisture to evaporate. This can help to prevent overwatering, which is a common cause of plant death. Plus, they're just plain pretty.
However, if you're on a budget or just want to get creative, you can use almost anything as a pot. Old buckets, wooden crates, even an old boot - as long as it has drainage holes, it can be used to grow nasturtiums.
Planting Your Nasturtiums
Step 1: Choose Your Seeds
There are many different varieties of nasturtiums to choose from, each with their own unique colors and patterns. Some are trailing, which means they'll spill over the sides of your pot, while others are bushy and compact. Choose a variety that suits your style and your space.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pot
Before you plant your seeds, you'll need to prepare your pot. Fill it with a good quality potting mix, leaving about an inch of space at the top. This will give your nasturtiums plenty of nutrients to grow and will also help with drainage.
Step 3: Plant Your Seeds
Now for the fun part - planting your seeds! Nasturtium seeds are quite large, so they're easy to handle. Plant them about an inch deep and a few inches apart. Then, cover them with soil and give them a good watering.
Step 4: Wait for Germination
After planting your seeds, all you need to do is wait. Nasturtium seeds usually germinate within 10-14 days, so keep an eye on your pot and make sure to keep the soil moist.
Caring for Your Nasturtiums
Once your nasturtiums have sprouted, they'll need a bit of care to keep them happy. But don't worry, they're not divas. They just need a bit of sun, a bit of water, and a bit of love.
Firstly, make sure your nasturtiums get plenty of sunlight. They love the sun and need at least six hours of it each day. So, place your pot in a sunny spot and watch your nasturtiums thrive.
Secondly, water your nasturtiums regularly, but don't overdo it. They don't like to have wet feet, so let the soil dry out a bit between waterings. A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Lastly, nasturtiums don't need a lot of fertilizer. In fact, too much can cause them to produce more leaves and fewer flowers. So, hold off on the fertilizer and let your nasturtiums do their thing.
FAQs
Can I grow nasturtiums indoors?
Yes, you can! Nasturtiums can be grown indoors as long as they get plenty of sunlight. Just make sure to place them near a sunny window and turn the pot regularly to ensure even growth.
Can I grow nasturtiums from cuttings?
While it's possible to grow nasturtiums from cuttings, it's much easier to grow them from seeds. Plus, growing from seeds gives you the chance to choose from a wider variety of colors and patterns.
What pests should I watch out for?
Nasturtiums can be affected by aphids, caterpillars, and slugs. However, they're also known to attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, which can help to keep pest populations in check.
Conclusion
So, there you have it - your complete guide to growing nasturtiums in pots. With their vibrant colors, easy care, and edible parts, nasturtiums are a great addition to any garden. So, why not give it a go? You might just find that you have a green thumb after all.
And remember, gardening is all about having fun and trying new things. So, don't be afraid to experiment and get creative. After all, the world is your garden - so make it bloom!
