Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) are vibrant, edible flowers that can add color and flavor to your Vermont garden. Known for their bright orange, red, and yellow blooms, these hardy plants are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious addition to salads and dishes. Growing nasturtiums in Vermont can be particularly rewarding due to the state’s unique climate and soil conditions. This article will guide you through the process of growing nasturtiums successfully in Vermont.
Before you start planting, it’s essential to understand what nasturtiums are and what they require. Nasturtiums are annual flowering plants that thrive in poor soils and prefer full sun. They are renowned for their peppery flavor, reminiscent of watercress, making them a popular choice for culinary use. Additionally, they attract beneficial insects like pollinators while deterring common pests such as aphids.
There are primarily two types of nasturtiums:
Bush Nasturtiums: These grow compact and do not need support. They are ideal for containers or small garden spaces.
Climbing Nasturtiums: These varieties grow taller and require trellises or supports to climb on. This type is perfect for vertical gardening or covering fences.
The growing season in Vermont is relatively short, so timing is essential when planting nasturtiums. Here is a timeline to consider:
Spring Planting: The best time to plant nasturtiums outdoors in Vermont is after the last frost date, typically around mid to late May. You can also start seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last frost to get a head start.
Fall Planting: If you want to enjoy nasturtiums into the fall, consider sowing seeds in late summer (August). However, ensure that they have enough time to establish themselves before the first frost.
Selecting the right location for your nasturtium plants is critical for their growth:
Nasturtiums thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ideally, look for a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In Vermont’s sometimes cloudy climate, ensuring adequate sunlight is key to producing vibrant blooms and flavorful foliage.
While nasturtiums are not particularly picky about soil quality, well-drained soil with good drainage is vital. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH levels (around 6.0 – 7.0). If your soil is heavy clay or overly rich, consider amending it with sand or compost to improve drainage and structure.
Preparation is essential for robust nasturtium growth:
Clearing Debris: Remove any weeds, rocks, or debris from the planting area.
Tilling: Loosen the soil with a garden fork or tiller to a depth of about 12 inches.
Amending Soil: Mix in organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil without adding excessive nitrogen.
Once your soil is prepared and conditions are favorable, it’s time to plant your nasturtium seeds:
Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/2 inch deep.
Spacing: Space seeds 10-12 inches apart for bush varieties and up to 24 inches apart for climbing varieties.
Watering: Water the area gently after planting to settle the soil without washing away seeds.
If you’ve started seeds indoors:
Harden Off: Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions over a week before planting them outside.
Transplanting: Follow the same spacing guidelines as direct-sown seeds when moving seedlings into your garden.
Nasturtiums have moderate water needs but are drought-tolerant once established:
Initial Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings germinate (usually within 7-10 days).
Established Plants: Water deeply but infrequently; allow the top inch of soil to dry out between watering sessions.
Avoid Overwatering: Too much moisture can lead to root rot or disease.
Nasturtiums thrive in lean soils and typically do not require much fertilization:
Avoid High-Nitrogen Fertilizers: Excess nitrogen can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms.
Organic Options: If you feel fertilization is necessary, consider using a balanced organic fertilizer at half strength once during the growing season.
Nasturtiums are generally resistant to pests and diseases but may still encounter some issues:
Aphids: Small green or black insects can be controlled naturally by introducing ladybugs or applying insecticidal soap as needed.
Cabbage Worms: Handpick these pests or use row covers until plants are established.
Harvesting nasturtiums can extend your enjoyment of this lovely plant:
Nasturtium leaves can be harvested once they reach a size suitable for use (about 2-3 inches across):
Flowers should be picked when they are fully open:
Use clean scissors or garden shears for harvesting.
Remove flowers carefully to avoid damaging stems; check for pests before using them in your dishes.
Nasturtium flowers and leaves have diverse culinary applications:
Salads: Use fresh leaves as a peppery addition to salads.
Garnishes: Brightly colored flowers make excellent garnishes for various dishes.
Herb Butter: Blend chopped leaves into softened butter for an aromatic spread.
Pickling: Some choose to pickle nasturtium buds as a substitute for capers.
Growing nasturtiums in Vermont is a fulfilling endeavor that offers both beauty and culinary delights. By understanding their growing requirements—from selecting an appropriate location to managing pests—you can cultivate these stunning plants successfully. Whether you’re looking for vibrant blooms in your garden or flavorful additions to your meals, nasturtiums are a versatile choice that can enhance your gardening experience throughout Vermont’s beautiful seasons. So grab some seeds, prepare your garden bed, and enjoy all that growing nasturtiums has to offer!