How to Grow Nasturtium in Mississippi

Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is a vibrant, edible flower that thrives in many regions, including the warm climate of Mississippi. Known for its striking colors and peppery flavor, nasturtium can add beauty and zest to your garden and culinary dishes alike. Whether you are a novice gardener or an experienced green thumb, this guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to grow nasturtium successfully in Mississippi.

Understanding Nasturtium

Nasturtiums are annual plants that belong to the Tropaeolaceae family. They are characterized by their round leaves and colorful flowers, which can be red, orange, yellow, or even bi-colored. These plants are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve a practical purpose; their leaves and flowers are edible and are often used in salads or as garnishes.

Benefits of Growing Nasturtium

1. Edibility: Both the leaves and flowers are edible and can add a unique flavor to your dishes.
2. Companion Planting: Nasturtiums repel aphids, whiteflies, and other pests, making them excellent companions for vegetable gardens.
3. Attracting Pollinators: The bright flowers attract bees and butterflies, promoting a healthy ecosystem in your garden.
4. Soil Improvement: Nasturtiums can help improve soil health by acting as a cover crop.

Choosing the Right Varieties

In Mississippi’s warm climate, there are several varieties of nasturtium you may consider planting:

• ‘Jewel Mix’: A colorful blend of various shades that produces large blooms.
• ‘Alaska Variegated’: Known for its beautiful variegated leaves and striking flowers.
• ‘Tom Thumb’: A dwarf variety that is perfect for container gardening.
• ‘Empress of India’: A deep red variety that adds drama to any garden.

When selecting your nasturtium seeds or plants, consider your gardening space and aesthetic preferences.

Timing Your Planting

In Mississippi, the growing season typically extends from late March to early November. To ensure thriving nasturtiums:

1. Start Indoors: If you wish to get a jumpstart on the season, consider starting seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date (around mid-April).
2. Direct Sowing: For direct sowing outdoors, wait until after the last frost date in April. Nasturtiums prefer warm temperatures.

Site Selection

Sunlight Requirements

Nasturtiums thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. In Mississippi, choosing a site that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight will yield the best results.

Soil Conditions

Nasturtiums prefer well-drained soil that is not overly rich in nutrients. Here’s what to consider:

• Soil Type: Sandy loam or clay-loam soils work well. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture.
• pH Level: Nasturtiums prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH levels (around 6.0 to 7.0).
• Amendments: If your soil is heavy or nutrient-rich, consider adding sand or compost to improve drainage and texture.

Planting Nasturtium

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting

1. Prepare the Soil:
2. Clear the area of weeds and debris.
3. Loosen the soil using a spade or tiller.

4. Mix in organic matter if necessary for better drainage.

5. Sow Seeds:

6. Plant seeds approximately 1/2 inch deep and 10-12 inches apart if planting multiple plants.

7. If starting indoors, use seed trays filled with seed-starting mix.

8. Watering:

9. Water gently after sowing to avoid displacing seeds.
10. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during germination (7-14 days).

Transplanting

If you started your seeds indoors:

1. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for about a week before transplanting.
2. Transplant seedlings into prepared garden beds after all danger of frost has passed.

Care and Maintenance

Watering Tips

Nasturtiums require moderate watering:

• Water deeply once a week during dry spells.
• Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plants.

Fertilization

Nasturtiums do not require heavy fertilization due to their preference for poorer soils:

• If your soil is particularly low in nutrients, apply a balanced fertilizer at half-strength once during mid-summer.

Pruning and Deadheading

To encourage continued blooming:

• Regularly deadhead spent flowers before they set seed.
• If plants become too leggy or bushy, prune back some stems to promote bushier growth.

Pest and Disease Management

While nasturtiums are relatively pest-resistant due to their peppery flavor, they can still suffer from some issues:

1. Pests:

2. Watch out for aphids and caterpillars; use insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.

3. Diseases:

4. Fungal issues like powdery mildew can occur in humid conditions; ensure good air circulation by spacing plants adequately.

Harvesting Nasturtium

When to Harvest

Nasturtium leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season while flowers should be collected during dry weather:

• For leaves: Pick young leaves for optimal flavor; older leaves may taste more pungent.
• For flowers: Harvest when fully open but before they start wilting.

Storage Tips

Fresh nasturtiums are best used immediately but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wrap them loosely in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag.

Culinary Uses of Nasturtium

The leaves and flowers of nasturtium offer unique flavors that enhance various dishes:

1. Salads: Add fresh leaves and petals for a peppery kick.
2. Garnishes: Use whole flowers as garnishes on soups or main dishes.
3. Herb Butter: Blend with softened butter for flavored spreads.

Conclusion

Growing nasturtium in Mississippi is an enriching experience that offers both beauty and utility in your garden. With proper care—from site selection to harvesting—you can enjoy vibrant blooms while reaping culinary rewards from this versatile plant. Embrace the colors and flavors of nasturtium, enhance your gardening skills, and contribute positively to your local ecosystem with this remarkable flower!