What To Know
- Nasturtium seeds are easy to grow indoors, making them a great choice for gardeners of all levels.
- Place the trays or pots in a sunny window or under a grow light.
- Provide more light by placing the trays or pots in a sunnier location or using a grow light.
Nasturtium seeds are easy to grow indoors, making them a great choice for gardeners of all levels. With their vibrant colors and peppery flavor, nasturtiums are a welcome addition to any garden. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plant nasturtium seeds indoors:
Gathering Materials
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
- Nasturtium seeds
- Seed starting mix
- Seedling trays or pots
- Water
- Grow light (optional)
Choosing Seeds
Select high-quality nasturtium seeds from a reputable source. Look for disease-resistant varieties that are suitable for indoor growing.
Preparing the Soil
Fill seedling trays or pots with seed starting mix. The soil should be moist but not soggy.
Sowing Seeds
Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep, spacing them 2-3 inches apart. Gently press the seeds into the soil.
Providing Light
Nasturtiums need plenty of light to germinate. Place the trays or pots in a sunny window or under a grow light. If using a grow light, provide 12-14 hours of light per day.
Watering
Water the soil regularly, keeping it moist but not wet. Avoid overwatering, as this can damage the seedlings.
Thinning Seedlings
Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, thin them out to the strongest and healthiest plants. Space the seedlings 4-6 inches apart.
Fertilizing
Fertilize the seedlings every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Use a diluted solution, following the instructions on the fertilizer label.
Transplanting Outdoors
When the seedlings are 4-6 inches tall and have developed several sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Growing Tips
- Nasturtiums can be grown in hanging baskets or containers.
- They prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
- Water regularly, especially during hot weather.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Companion Planting
- Nasturtiums are great companion plants for tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots.
- They can help deter pests and attract beneficial insects.
Troubleshooting
- Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Reduce watering and fertilize regularly.
- Leggy seedlings: Insufficient light. Provide more light by placing the trays or pots in a sunnier location or using a grow light.
- Damping off: Fungal disease caused by overwatering. Thin out seedlings and improve drainage.
Wrapping Up: A Colorful and Flavorful Addition to Your Garden
Planting nasturtium seeds indoors is a simple and rewarding process. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy the vibrant blooms and peppery flavor of nasturtiums all season long.
What You Need to Learn
Q: How long does it take for nasturtium seeds to germinate?
A: Nasturtium seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days.
Q: Can I plant nasturtium seeds directly outdoors?
A: Yes, but starting them indoors gives them a head start on the growing season.
Q: How often should I water nasturtium seedlings?
A: Water the seedlings regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy.
Q: Do nasturtiums need to be pollinated?
A: Nasturtiums are self-fertile, meaning they do not need to be pollinated to produce fruit.
Q: Can I eat nasturtium flowers?
A: Yes, nasturtium flowers and leaves are edible and have a peppery flavor.
