How to Grow Nasturtium in New Mexico

Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is a vibrant, fast-growing flowering plant that is both beautiful and edible. With its bright orange, yellow, and red flowers and round green leaves, nasturtiums are perfect for gardens, containers, or as ground cover. Growing nasturtium in New Mexico can be particularly rewarding due to the region’s unique climate and soil conditions. In this article, we will explore the essential steps, tips, and techniques for successfully cultivating nasturtium in the Land of Enchantment.

Understanding the Climate in New Mexico

New Mexico has a diverse range of climates, from arid deserts to cooler mountainous regions. Generally speaking, the state experiences hot summers with low humidity and cold winters. This means that gardeners need to be aware of their local environment when planning to grow nasturtium.

1. Temperature: Nasturtiums thrive in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F. In New Mexico’s high desert areas, night temperatures can drop significantly, so it’s essential to start seeds or transplants after the last frost date.

2. Sunlight: Nasturtiums love full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ideally, they should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth.

3. Soil Conditions: Nasturtiums prefer well-draining soil with good organic content. They can adapt to various soil types but perform best in slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6.0-7.0).

Choosing the Right Variety

There are many varieties of nasturtiums available, each with different colors, sizes, and growth habits. Some popular varieties that thrive in New Mexico include:

• ‘Empress of India’: This variety features deep red flowers and dark green leaves. It grows as a compact bush and is ideal for containers.
• ‘Jewel Mix’: A mix of colorful flowers ranging from yellow to orange to red; this variety is known for its vibrant appearance.
• ‘Alaska’: This variety has variegated leaves with white edges and produces bright flowers. It’s great for adding visual interest to your garden.

When selecting a variety, consider your garden space and aesthetic preferences.

Preparing the Soil

Preparing the soil is crucial for successful nasturtium growth. Follow these steps:

1. Testing Soil pH: Use a soil test kit to check the pH level of your garden soil. If it falls outside the ideal range (6.0-7.0), you may need to amend it with lime (to raise pH) or sulfur (to lower pH).

2. Amending Soil: Work organic matter into your soil to improve drainage and nutrient content. Consider adding compost or well-rotted manure before planting.

3. Tilling: Loosen the top 12–15 inches of soil using a garden fork or tiller. This will help roots penetrate more easily and promote healthy growth.

4. Drainage: Nasturtiums do not like waterlogged soil, so ensure that your planting area has good drainage. If necessary, create raised beds or mound soil for better aeration.

Planting Nasturtium Seeds

Nasturtiums can be grown from seeds or transplants. Here’s how to plant them:

Starting Seeds Indoors

1. Timing: Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.
2. Containers: Use seed trays or small pots filled with seed starting mix.
3. Sowing Seeds: Plant seeds about 1/2 inch deep and water them gently.
4. Light Requirements: Place the containers in a sunny location or under grow lights until seedlings emerge.

Direct Sowing Outdoors

1. Timing: Once all chances of frost have passed and soil temperatures reach at least 60°F (typically mid to late spring).
2. Spacing: Sow seeds 1 inch apart in rows spaced about 12 inches apart.
3. Depth: Plant seeds approximately 1/2 inch deep.
4. Watering: Water lightly after sowing but avoid over-saturating the soil.

Caring for Nasturtium Plants

Once your nasturtium seeds or seedlings are established, proper care is needed:

Watering

Nasturtiums prefer evenly moist soil but do not tolerate soggy conditions:

• Water deeply once a week during dry spells.
• Reduce watering frequency during rainy periods.
• Monitor leaf color; yellowing may indicate overwatering.

Fertilization

Nasturtiums are not heavy feeders:

• Apply a balanced organic fertilizer once at planting time.
• Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers as they promote foliage growth over flowering.

Pest Control

While generally pest-resistant, nasturtiums can still attract certain pests:

• Aphids: These small bugs can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Caterpillars: Hand-pick any visible caterpillars from the plants.
• Slugs & Snails: Use diatomaceous earth or copper tape around your plants for prevention.

Pruning and Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps keep nasturtiums looking their best:

• Pinch back leggy plants to encourage bushier growth.
• Deadhead spent flowers to promote further blooming.

Harvesting and Using Nasturtium

Nasturtiums are not just pretty; they are also edible! Both flowers and leaves have a peppery flavor similar to arugula.

Harvesting Flowers

1. Pick flowers when they are fully open for best flavor.
2. Use them fresh in salads, as garnish for dishes, or even in ice cubes for decorative drinks.

Harvesting Leaves

1. Young leaves are tender; use them fresh in salads or sandwiches.
2. Older leaves can be used sparingly due to their stronger flavor.

Preserving Nasturtium

If you have an abundance of nasturtium blooms:

• Make nasturtium pesto by blending leaves with nuts, olive oil, cheese, and seasonings.
• Preserve flowers by pickling them in vinegar for use as a condiment.

Conclusion

Growing nasturtium in New Mexico is a delightful endeavor that rewards gardeners with stunning blooms and delicious edible plants. By understanding the local climate, choosing suitable varieties, preparing the right soil conditions, and caring for your plants properly, you can enjoy this versatile flowering plant throughout the growing season. With their resilience and beauty, nasturtiums can enhance any garden space while also adding flavor to your culinary creations!