Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) are not only beautiful flowering plants but are also easy to grow and maintain. Their vibrant colors and unique shapes make them a favorite among gardeners. In Kentucky, with its diverse climate, growing nasturtiums can be a rewarding endeavor. This article will guide you through the process of growing nasturtium in Kentucky, covering everything from selection to care.
Nasturtiums are annual plants that can be grown both in gardens and containers. They are known for their edible flowers and leaves, which have a peppery flavor similar to arugula. Beyond their culinary uses, nasturtiums attract beneficial insects, repel certain pests, and add a splash of color to any garden.
There are two main types of nasturtiums:
Bush Nasturtiums: These have a compact growth habit and are perfect for garden beds or containers. They typically grow up to 12-18 inches tall.
Trailing Nasturtiums: These varieties can reach heights of 12-24 inches but spread outwards as they grow, making them excellent for hanging baskets or cascading over walls.
When choosing which type of nasturtium to grow in Kentucky, consider your garden space and design preferences. Here are a few popular varieties:
Nasturtiums thrive in warm weather but are sensitive to frost. In Kentucky, the last frost typically occurs around mid-April. Therefore:
Direct Sowing: You can plant nasturtium seeds directly into your garden or containers after the last frost date. Aim for late April to early May.
Starting Indoors: If you want an earlier start or if you live in a cooler part of the state, you can start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date.
Nasturtiums prefer well-draining soil that isn’t overly rich in nutrients. Here are some guidelines for soil preparation:
Soil Type: A sandy loam or loamy soil works best. Heavy clay soils may lead to root rot, so consider amending them with organic matter or compost.
pH Level: Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH level (between 6.0 and 7.0). Testing your soil can help you determine if any adjustments are necessary.
Drainage: Ensure good drainage by incorporating organic materials or planting nasturtiums in raised beds.
Prepare Your Garden Bed: Loosen the top 12 inches of soil and remove any debris or weeds.
Sow Seeds: Plant seeds about 1 inch deep, spacing them 10–12 inches apart for bush varieties and 12–18 inches apart for trailing types.
Watering: After sowing, water gently to moisten the soil without washing away seeds.
Mulching: Adding a layer of mulch can help maintain moisture levels and suppress weeds as nastrutiums establish themselves.
Once your nasturtium seeds have germinated (usually within 7-14 days), it’s essential to provide proper care to ensure healthy growth.
Nasturtiums prefer moderate watering; they enjoy moist but not soggy soil:
Over-fertilizing nasturtiums can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers:
To encourage more blooms:
Nasturtiums are generally pest-resistant but can attract aphids or spider mites:
Additionally, their ability to repel pests like cucumber beetles and aphids makes them great companion plants in vegetable gardens.
One of the most delightful aspects of growing nasturtiums is harvesting their edible flowers and leaves:
Harvest flowers when they are fully open but still fresh—early morning is usually the best time for picking flowers as they hold more moisture.
Both the flowers and leaves can be used in salads, garnishes, or even as colorful additions to cocktails. Their peppery flavor adds an interesting twist to various dishes.
While nasturtiums are relatively easy to grow, there are some issues that gardeners might encounter:
If your nasturtiums aren’t thriving:
Check sunlight exposure; they prefer full sun (6–8 hours daily).
Ensure you’re not overwatering; soggy roots can lead to poor growth or rot.
Consider spacing plants properly to enhance air circulation if you notice powdery mildew on leaves:
As annuals, nasturtiums will not survive Kentucky’s cold winters but can be treated as self-seeding plants:
Growing nasturtiums in Kentucky is a rewarding way to introduce vibrant colors and unique flavors into your garden landscape. From proper seed selection and planting techniques to ongoing care practices that ensure healthy blooms, these plants can significantly enhance your gardening experience while providing culinary delights throughout the growing season. With minimal effort, you’ll find that nasturtiums quickly become one of your favorite plants—both aesthetically pleasing and useful!