Nasturtiums are vibrant, edible plants that bring bursts of color to gardens and landscapes. With their striking flowers and unique peppery flavor, they are not only beautiful but also practical. Growing nasturtiums in Montana can be a rewarding experience for gardeners, whether you are a seasoned pro or a novice. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about growing nasturtium in the Big Sky Country.
Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) are annuals native to South America. They thrive in poor soils, which makes them ideal for gardeners looking to add low-maintenance plants to their garden. The plants produce stunning flowers ranging from yellow to deep red and green leaves that can also be consumed. Both the leaves and flowers are edible and can add a delightful spiciness to salads and other dishes.
When selecting nasturtium varieties for your Montana garden, consider both the aesthetics and intended use:
Flowering Varieties: Some popular flowering varieties include ‘Jewel Mix’, ‘Alaska Mix’, and ‘Peach Melba’. These are well-suited for ornamental gardening.
Trailing Varieties: If you have limited space or want to create a hanging display, consider varieties like ‘Nasturtium Ladybird’ or ‘Tom Thumb’.
Compact Varieties: For small gardens or containers, opt for compact varieties such as ‘Whirlybird’ or ‘Baby Rose’.
Montana has a diverse climate, ranging from hot summers to cold winters, which can affect your planting schedule. Nasturtiums prefer warm weather, so aim to plant them after the last frost date in your area, typically around mid-May.
Nasturtiums thrive in well-draining soil that is moderately fertile. They do not require rich soil, as excessive nutrients can lead to lush foliage with fewer flowers. A pH level between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal. If your soil is heavy clay or too sandy, consider amending it with compost or peat moss to improve drainage while still allowing some nutrient retention.
These vibrant plants prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates. In Montana, aim for at least six hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and blooming.
Timing: Start seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost if you want an early start. Alternatively, you can sow directly outdoors once the soil temperature reaches about 60°F (15°C).
Seed Scarification: To improve germination rates, scarify the seeds by gently rubbing them with sandpaper or soaking them in water overnight before planting.
Nasturtiums require regular watering during dry spells but do not like to sit in waterlogged soil. Water them deeply once a week unless there is significant rainfall; adjust according to local weather conditions.
Since nasturtiums grow best in poor soil, avoid heavy fertilizing as it may produce lush foliage with few flowers. A light application of balanced fertilizer can be added at planting time if desired.
While nasturtiums are generally pest-resistant due to their peppery taste, they can attract aphids or whiteflies. Regularly inspect plants for signs of infestation:
Once your nasturtiums begin to flower, you can start harvesting:
Flowers: Pick flowers as needed for culinary uses; they can be used fresh in salads or as garnishes.
Leaves: Harvest leaves at any time during the growing season; use them fresh for salads or sandwiches.
Seeds: If you’re interested in saving seeds for next year’s planting, allow some flowers to mature into seed pods before harvesting.
Given Montana’s shorter growing season, ensure you start seeds indoors if possible, or choose quicker-maturing varieties that can produce blooms before the first frost hits.
If your nasturtiums are not thriving:
If your plants begin wilting:
Growing nasturtium in Montana offers numerous benefits—from their aesthetic appeal to their culinary versatility. With proper preparation and care, these resilient plants will flourish even under challenging conditions typical of Montana gardens. By following the guidelines outlined in this article—selecting appropriate varieties, understanding their needs, and managing common challenges—you’ll set yourself up for a successful and colorful growing season filled with delightful blooms and tasty additions to your table!