genus Nasturtium are utterly rattling for growing in pots ! They are well - suited to container gardening and can thrive on balconies , patio , or even windowsills . Here ’s why Nasturtium are a great pick for potted plant and some tips on how to grow them successfully :

1 . Easy to spring up : Nasturtiums are known for being improbably easy to grow from germ . They have a high germination rate and do n’t require any special discussion . plainly sow the seeds directly into the potting soil , and they will germinate within a week or two .

2 . Compact size : Nasturtium are relatively compendious plant , making them ideal for small container . Their trailing habit also progress to them sodding for hang baskets or cascading over the edges of pots . you’re able to opt from dwarf or climbing varieties , depending on the space you have useable .

3 . Abundant blossom : One of the main attraction of nasturtiums is their profusion of colourful blossom . They come in a compass of vibrant shade , including yellowness , orangeness , reds , and even bismuth - coloration . The teemingness of salad days secure a sensational showing throughout the summer month .

4 . Edible flowers and leave-taking : Not only are nasturtium flowers beautiful , but they are also edible ! The heyday have a slimly peppery taste and can be used to garnish salads or add colour to dishes . The leaves are also eatable and have a similar peppery spirit . Having a sight of nasturtiums on your balcony can provide both visual appeal and an eatable treat .

5 . appeal good insect : Nasturtiums are known for pull in good insects such as bee , butterfly , and hoverflies . These pollinators help to increase fruit and veggie yields in nearby plant . By grow Nasturtium in pots , you’re able to aid back local pollinator population and create a more biodiverse environment .

Now , lease ’s talk about how to raise nasturtiums in tidy sum :

1 . Choose the right container : Select a raft or hanging basket with good drainage trap to foreclose sloughy territory . A profoundness of around 6 - 8 inch should be sufficient for most genus Nasturtium variety .

2 . Use well - draining soil : Nasturtium prefer well - draining soil that is rich in organic matter . A quality potting mix with sum up compost or well - rotted manure will allow for the necessary nutrient . avert using heavy Lucius DuBignon Clay land , as it can lead to root rot .

3 . Sow the seed : Sow the genus Nasturtium seeds directly into the potting soil , following the packet instructions for spacing and depth . It ’s sound to sow multiple seeded player in each pot to see a good showing of flowers . lose weight out the seedling once they have sprouted , lead the strongest ones .

4 . Watering and fertilizing : Nasturtiums favour slightly moist dirt , so irrigate them regularly to keep the stain equally moist . Avoid overwatering , as it can direct to root rot . Fertilizing is generally not necessary for nasturtiums , as they can thrive in relatively poor soil . However , if you require to encourage more foliation growth , you’re able to apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks .

5 . Provide reinforcement if needed : climb varieties of Nasturtium may require some sustenance as they grow . you’re able to use a modest trellis or bamboo bet to help them wax and get behind . Be sure to procure the supports firmly in the pot to prevent them from toppling over .

6 . Deadheading and maintenance : To prolong the flowering period , regularly deadhead the spent flowers . This will advance the plant life to grow more blooms . Nasturtiums are generally low - maintenance plant , but keep an eye out for plague such as aphids . If necessary , handle them with organic pest control methods .

Nasturtium are highly suitable for produce in pots and can bring a burst of coloring material to any balcony or patio . With their soft - move nature and eatable flowers , they are a double-dyed choice for both novice and experienced gardener . Give them a try , and you ’ll be rewarded with a stunning display of flowers and the satisfaction of growing your own edible bloom .

Caroline Bates