How to Grow Nasturtium Seed (as a spice) in Kentucky

Nasturtium is not just a beautiful addition to your garden; it’s also a versatile herb that can be used as a spice. Known for its vibrant flowers and peppery leaves, this plant is perfect for adding a unique flavor to salads, pestos, and other culinary creations. If you live in Kentucky and wish to explore the rewarding experience of growing nasturtium, this guide will lead you through the process of cultivation, care, and harvesting.

Understanding Nasturtium

Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is a flowering plant native to South America. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which includes mustard and cabbage. The leaves, flowers, and seeds are all edible, making it a great choice for home cooks who enjoy experimenting with flavors. The leaves have a crisp texture with a mildly spicy taste similar to arugula, while the flowers add not only flavor but also vibrant color to dishes.

Why Grow Nasturtium in Kentucky?

Kentucky’s climate offers an excellent environment for growing nasturtium. The warm summers and moderate winters create ideal conditions for this fast-growing annual plant. Additionally, growing nasturtium can enhance your garden’s biodiversity, attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, and provide a natural pest deterrent.

Benefits of Growing Nasturtium

1. Culinary Versatility: From salads to sandwiches, the edible parts of nasturtium can elevate any dish.
2. Aesthetics: Its bright flowers can brighten up your garden or patio.
3. Pest Control: Nasturtiums can help deter aphids and other pests due to their strong smell.
4. Easy to Grow: They require minimal maintenance once established.

Choosing the Right Variety

When selecting nasturtium seeds for your Kentucky garden, consider the following popular varieties:

• ‘Jewel Mix’: A colorful mix of flowers ranging from reds to yellows, great for aesthetic appeal.
• ‘Alaska’: Known for its marbled leaves and vibrant blooms; this variety is particularly resilient.
• ‘Navy Blue’: Features dark green foliage with striking blue flowers.

Choose a variety that suits your gardening style and culinary needs.

When to Plant Nasturtium

In Kentucky, the best time to plant nasturtium seeds is after the last frost date, typically around mid-April to early May. Nasturtiums thrive best in warm soil with temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 75°F (24°C).

Starting Seeds Indoors

If you prefer an early start, you can begin by sowing seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Use biodegradable pots filled with seed-starting mix. Plant seeds about half an inch deep and keep them near a sunny window or under grow lights until transplanting.

Direct Seeding Outdoors

Once the threat of frost has passed, you can sow seeds directly into your garden beds or containers. Plant them about 1 inch apart and cover with about half an inch of soil. Water gently after planting.

Soil Preparation

Nasturtiums prefer well-draining soil enriched with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Here’s how to prepare your soil:

1. Choose the Right Spot: Look for a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
2. Test Soil pH: The ideal pH for nasturtiums is between 6.5 and 7.5.
3. Amend as Needed: If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, add lime or sulfur accordingly.
4. Incorporate Organic Matter: Mix in compost or aged manure to improve drainage and nutrient content.

Watering Needs

Nasturtiums thrive on moderate watering. They prefer consistently moist but not waterlogged soil:

• Newly Planted Seeds: Water lightly every day until germination occurs (usually within 7-14 days).
• Established Plants: Once established, water less frequently but ensure they receive about 1 inch of water per week during dry spells.

Signs of Overwatering

Be cautious as overwatered nasturtiums may develop root rot or fungal diseases. Look for yellowing leaves or wilting plants as indicators of excessive moisture.

Fertilizing Nasturtium

Nasturtiums typically do not require much fertilization; in fact, overly rich soil can cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of flower production:

1. Initial Fertilization: Incorporate compost into the soil before planting.
2. Side Dressing: If necessary, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer once or twice during the growing season at half strength.

Pest and Disease Management

While nasturtiums are relatively resilient against pests and diseases, monitoring them regularly will help ensure their health:

Common Pests

• Aphids: These small insects can cluster on young shoots and leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for control.
• Caterpillars: Handpick larger caterpillars off plants; they might be attracted due to the plant’s spicy flavor.

Diseases

• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease thrives in high humidity. To prevent it, ensure adequate air circulation around plants by spacing them properly.
• Root Rot: Caused by overwatering; ensure proper drainage in pots or garden beds.

Harvesting Nasturtium Seeds

Once your nasturtiums mature (usually late summer), you can start harvesting seeds:

1. Timing: Wait until the seed pods turn brown and dry on the plant.
2. Harvest Method: Snip off the seed pods carefully with scissors.
3. Storage: Allow harvested seeds to dry fully in a cool, dark place before storing them in a paper envelope or jar.

Using Nasturtium Seeds as Spice

The harvested seeds can be used as a spicy substitute for capers or pickled for added flavor in various dishes:

1. Pickling Process:
2. Wash seeds thoroughly.
3. Boil seeds in vinegar mixed with spices (like dill) for about 10 minutes.

4. Store in sterilized jars in the fridge.

5. Drying Seeds for Later Use:

6. Place seeds on a clean towel until they are completely dry before storing them away from direct sunlight.

Cooking with Nasturtium

The culinary uses of nasturtium are extensive:

• Add fresh leaves to salads for extra crunch.
• Blend leaves into pesto as a peppery alternative.
• Garnish dishes with colorful flowers for visual appeal and flavor enhancement.

Conclusion

Growing nasturtium in Kentucky offers both aesthetic beauty and culinary delight as an edible spice plant. With straightforward care guidelines involving proper planting techniques, watering practices, and pest management strategies, gardeners of all levels can enjoy this unique herbaceous annual.

By cultivating nasturtium seeds successfully, not only will you enrich your cooking experiences but also enhance your garden’s ecological health while enjoying this eye-catching plant throughout its blooming season!