Nasturtiums, with their vibrant flowers and peppery leaves, are not only beautiful additions to any garden but also offer culinary delights and benefits for pollinators. Growing nasturtium seeds in Oregon can be a rewarding experience, thanks to the state’s diverse climate zones. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about successfully growing nasturtium seeds in Oregon, from seed selection to planting and care.
Nasturtiums belong to the Tropaeolum genus and are native to Central and South America. They are known for their bright, colorful flowers that come in shades of orange, yellow, and red. The flowers, leaves, and even seeds are edible, making them a fantastic choice for salads and garnishes. Additionally, nasturtiums are excellent companions for other plants as they attract beneficial insects and deter pests.
Before planting nasturtium seeds, it is essential to choose the right variety for your garden. There are two main types of nasturtiums:
Climbing Nasturtiums: These varieties can grow up to 10 feet tall and are great for trellises or fences. They require support but can offer a stunning display when grown vertically.
Dwarf or Compact Varieties: These typically grow between 6 to 12 inches tall and are perfect for borders, containers, or small gardens.
Some popular varieties include:
– ‘Empress of India’: Known for its deep red flowers and blue-green leaves.
– ‘Alaska’: Features variegated leaves with a mix of green and white.
– ‘Jewel Mix’: A vibrant mix of colors that attract pollinators.
Timing is crucial when growing nasturtium seeds in Oregon due to its varying climate conditions. Here’s a general timeline based on the state’s climate zones:
Pacific Coastal Region: You can start sowing nasturtium seeds directly outdoors in late March to early April after the last frost date.
Willamette Valley: Sow seeds outdoors from mid-April onwards, ensuring that soil temperatures are consistently above 50°F (10°C).
Eastern Oregon: Since the growing season is shorter, it’s advisable to start seeds indoors in late March to transplant outdoors after the last frost date in early May.
Nasturtiums thrive best in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Here’s how to prepare your soil:
Choose a Location: Select a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Soil Test: Conduct a soil test if possible to determine pH levels and nutrient content. Nasturtiums prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 – 7.0).
Amend the Soil: If your soil is heavy clay or lacks nutrients, consider amending it with compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility.
Once you have your soil prepared and the timing is right, it’s time to plant your nasturtium seeds:
Water gently after planting.
Starting Indoors (Optional):
Nasturtiums are relatively drought-tolerant but perform best with consistent moisture during their initial growth period. Here are some watering tips:
Frequency: Water your plants once a week during dry spells or if there has been no rain for an extended period.
Method: Water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to prevent fungal diseases.
Signs of Overwatering: Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering; ensure proper drainage and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
One of the unique qualities of nasturtiums is that they thrive in poor soil conditions. Excess fertilizer can result in lush foliage growth at the expense of flowers. However, if you wish to fertilize:
Use a balanced organic fertilizer sparingly at planting time, then avoid further feeding unless growth appears stunted.
Compost can be added as a top dressing during mid-season if necessary.
While nasturtiums attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and bees, they can also attract pests such as aphids or caterpillars. Here’s how to manage these issues:
Monitoring: Regularly inspect plants for signs of infestation early in the season.
Natural Remedies:
Attract predatory insects by planting nearby herbs like dill or fennel.
Companion Planting: Utilize nasturtiums as trap crops by planting them near susceptible plants; aphids will prefer them over other vegetables.
Nasturtium leaves and flowers can be harvested continuously throughout their growing season:
Leaves: Harvest young leaves regularly for salads; older leaves may become tough.
Flowers: Pick flowers in the morning when they’re fully opened but still fresh. Use them immediately or store them briefly in water until ready to use.
If you’d like to save seeds from your nasturtiums:
In Oregon’s milder winter climates (like coastal areas), annual nasturtiums may survive with adequate protection; however, they are generally treated as annuals:
For colder regions like Eastern Oregon:
– Remove spent plants entirely before winter sets in.
Growing nasturtium seeds in Oregon proves both easy and rewarding when you understand the nuances of local climate impacts on timing, soil preparation, care practices, and pest management strategies. With their beauty enhancing any garden space alongside their culinary uses—nasturtiums not only uplift our plates but also enrich ecosystems around them. So grab some seeds and enjoy the delightful experience of nurturing these hardy plants!