How to Grow Nasturtium in Arkansas

Nasturtiums are vibrant, edible flowers that can add a splash of color to any garden, especially in the warm climate of Arkansas. With their unique flavor and appealing aesthetics, they’re not just a pretty face; they also attract beneficial insects and deter pests. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about growing nasturtiums in Arkansas, from choosing the right variety to caring for your plants.

Understanding Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) are annual plants native to South America. They are known for their bright orange, yellow, and red flowers and circular leaves that have a peppery flavor. The leaves, flowers, and seeds of the nasturtium are all edible and can be used in salads, garnishes, and even as a natural remedy.

Why Grow Nasturtiums?

1. Edible Beauty: Both the flowers and leaves are edible, making them a delightful addition to meals.
2. Pest Control: Nasturtiums attract beneficial insects such as pollinators while deterring harmful pests like aphids.
3. Easy to Grow: They thrive in various conditions and require minimal care once established.
4. Versatile: They can be grown in garden beds, containers, or hanging baskets.

Choosing the Right Variety

There are several varieties of nasturtiums that you can consider for your Arkansas garden:

• Jewel Mix: A mix of vibrant colors with strong growth habits.
• Alaska Mix: Known for its variegated leaves; ideal for decorative purposes.
• Tom Thumb: A compact variety perfect for container gardening.
• Empress of India: Features deep red flowers and blue-green foliage.

Select a variety based on your garden space and aesthetic preferences.

Planting Nasturtium

When to Plant

In Arkansas, the best time to plant nasturtiums is after the last frost date, typically around mid-April to early May. However, they can also be sown directly into the ground or started indoors beforehand.

Where to Plant

Nasturtiums prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Select a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. They thrive in well-drained soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.

How to Prepare the Soil

1. Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient content.
2. Amendments: If necessary, amend the soil with compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
3. Tilling: Till the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches to ensure good root growth.

Sowing Seeds

1. Direct Sowing: Sow seeds ½ inch deep in well-prepared soil.
2. Spacing: Space seeds about 10-12 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation.
3. Watering: Water gently after planting to help settle the soil around the seeds.

Alternatively, you can start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date and transplant them outdoors once they have developed several true leaves.

Caring for Your Nasturtium Plants

Once your nasturtiums are planted, regular care will help them flourish.

Watering

Nasturtiums prefer well-drained soil but need consistent moisture during dry spells. Water them deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering as this may lead to root rot.

Fertilizing

Nasturtiums do not require heavy fertilization due to their adaptability to poorer soils. If you choose to fertilize, use a balanced organic fertilizer sparingly at planting time or during active growth phases in mid-summer.

Pruning and Deadheading

To encourage continuous blooming, regularly deadhead spent flowers by pinching them off at the stem. This will also prevent unwanted self-seeding if you wish to manage plant populations.

Pest Management

While nasturtiums generally resist pests due to their strong scent and taste, they can sometimes attract aphids or caterpillars. Here are some organic management strategies:

• Hand-picking: Remove pests by hand when noticed.
• Insecticidal soap: Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil if infestations occur.
• Companion Planting: Utilize nasturtiums as companion plants near vegetables like tomatoes or cucumbers which benefit from pest deterrence.

Harvesting Nasturtium

You can begin harvesting nasturtium flowers and leaves once they have reached maturity—typically around 8-10 weeks after planting. Here’s how:

1. Flowers: Pick mature blossoms early in the morning when they’re fully open for best flavor.
2. Leaves: Harvest leaves at any stage but choose younger leaves for milder flavor.
3. Seeds: If you want to save seeds for future planting, allow several pods to mature on the plant until they dry out completely before harvesting.

Common Challenges in Growing Nasturtiums

While nasturtiums are relatively low-maintenance plants, they can encounter some issues:

Disease

Common diseases affecting nasturtiums include powdery mildew and downy mildew due to excessive humidity or poor air circulation:

• Improve air circulation by spacing plants appropriately.
• Water early in the day to avoid prolonged moisture on foliage.

Environmental Factors

Extreme heat or cold can adversely affect plant health:

• Consider providing partial shade during peak summer heat or using protective covers during unexpected cold snaps.

Conclusion

Growing nasturtiums in Arkansas is not only simple but also rewarding due to their beauty and culinary uses. Follow these steps— from selecting varieties appropriate for your garden conditions through proper care techniques—and you’ll enjoy flourishing nasturtium plants that enhance your landscapes and meals alike.

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, nasturtiums provide a reliable option for adding color and utility to your garden space. Get ready for a flourishing display of edible beauty this growing season!