Edible and Ornamental: The Climbing Nasturtium

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Introduction : A Splash of Spicy Color

Climbing nasturtiums are an eye-catching addition to any garden, offering both aesthetic appeal and culinary value. These vibrant plants, known botanically as Tropaeolum majus, can be easily recognized by their bright, trumpet-shaped flowers and large, shield-like leaves. Climbing nasturtiums are inherently versatile and can be trained to scale trellises, pergolas, and fences or allowed to sprawl freely as ground cover. They flourish in a myriad of environments, from full sun to partial shade, and are renowned for their minimal care requirements.

The blossoms of nasturtiums are not merely decorative. They boast an unexpected peppery taste, making them a popular choice for adding a zesty flourish to salads, sandwiches, and garnishes. The entire plant is edible, with leaves imparting a similar sharp flavor profile, and the seed pods, which can be pickled, are likened to capers.

• Soil and Water: Climbing nasturtiums can thrive in well-drained soil, they are resilient and can grow even in poor soil conditions. It’s best, however, to sow seeds in a well-drained seed starting mix 3 weeks prior to ensure stronger growth. Their watering needs are moderate, and they often fare better when not overwatered, as this can spur lush foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
• Pests and Diseases: These plants are also appreciated for their ability to deter garden pests such as aphids, making them an excellent companion plant. Though generally robust, they can occasionally suffer from fungal diseases if the foliage remains too damp.
• Propagation: sow seeds in easy to grow conditions. Easily propagated by seeds, which can be sown directly into their final growing position in the spring, nasturtiums exemplify ease and convenience for gardeners of all skill levels.

The dual nature of climbing nasturtiums, embodying both ornamental and edible qualities, renders them a dynamic and invaluable component of the sustainable garden. Whether for their spontaneous bursts of color or their unexpected spicy addition to culinary creations, climbing nasturtiums are a garden treasure with multiple benefits.

Choosing the Right Variety: Types of Climbing Nasturtiums

When selecting climbing nasturtiums for your garden, considering the available varieties is crucial for aligning with your aesthetic and culinary needs. These vibrant plants are known for their lush foliage and peppery-flavored flowers, which can effortlessly accentuate any garden space while offering a delightful treat.

• Tropaeolum majus is one of the most common species chosen for its vigorous climbing habit and large, trumpet-shaped blooms that appear in a variety of shades, like red, orange, yellow, and cream. This variety often reaches lengths of up to 10 feet and thrives in full sun to partial shade.
• Canary Creeper (Tropaeolum peregrinum) stands out with its unique, fringed petals resembling a canary’s wings. It is a fast grower and provides a stunning display of yellow flowers, making it an ideal choice for covering trellises or fences.
• Tropaeolum speciosum, also known as Flame Flower, offers a distinctive look with its fiery red blossoms intertwined among dense greenery. It’s an excellent choice for cooler climates and can even tolerate some shade.
• Varieties like ‘Alaska’ and ‘Empress of India’ are notable not only for their charming flowers but also for their variegated and richly colored leaves, respectively. ‘Alaska’ features marbled green and white foliage, while ‘Empress of India’ boasts a deep, non-variegated leaf color that contrasts brilliantly with its scarlet flowers.

When choosing a variety, consider the growth environment, such as sunlight exposure, temperature range, and support structures. Also, factor in the desired impact—whether it’s to attract pollinators, provide a splash of color, or create a privacy screen. By carefully selecting the appropriate variety, enthusiasts can enjoy the aesthetic allure and edible benefits of climbing nasturtiums in harmony.

Site Selection and Soil Preparation: Setting Up for Success

Choosing the right site is crucial for cultivating climbing nasturtiums that serve both edible and ornamental purposes. These vigorous climbers thrive in a sunny location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. While nasturtiums can adapt to partial shade, their blossoms may be fewer and less vibrant.

When preparing the soil, aim for a well-draining medium. Nasturtiums are not fussy about soil pH but prefer a slightly acidic to neutral range (pH 6.0 to 7.0). Overly fertile soil can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers, thus a moderate fertility level is ideal.

To ensure success:

• Start by removing any weeds and debris from the planting site.
• Break up the soil to a depth of 12 to 15 inches using a fork or tiller to promote root penetration.
• Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve soil structure and drainage. However, be conservative with nutrient-rich amendments.
• Level the soil with a rake to remove clumps and create a uniform surface.
• If drainage is a concern, consider raising the garden beds to improve water runoff.

Remember, the goal is to create an environment that encourages strong, healthy growth and vibrant blooms without encouraging excessive vegetative development. With proper site selection and soil preparation, climbing nasturtiums will be poised to provide a dual delight of culinary and visual appeal.

Planting Seeds vs. Seedlings: Best Practices

When considering climbing nasturtiums for your garden, understanding the best practices for planting seeds versus seedlings can ensure a lush, vibrant display.

Starting with Seeds

1. Choose a Sunny Location: Nasturtiums thrive in areas that receive full sun to light shade.
2. Prepare the Soil by Using Well-Drained Seed Starting Mix 3 Weeks Prior.: Lightly fertilize the soil with a low-nitrogen fertilizer. Over-fertilization can lead to fewer blooms.
3. Plant at the Correct Time: Plant seeds directly into the ground once the danger of frost has passed, for most regions, this means waiting until spring.
4. Sowing Depth: Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and cover lightly with soil.
5. Watering: Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate.
6. Spacing: Space seeds 10 to 12 inches apart to give each plant enough room to grow.
7. Support: Since nasturtiums are climbers, provide support such as a trellis or fence for the plants to latch onto as they grow.

Planting Seedlings

1. Acclimation: Before planting, acclimate seedlings to the outdoor conditions by gradually exposing them to the outside over a period of a few days.
2. Planting: Dig holes that are as deep as the root ball and twice as wide.
3. Position: Place the seedling in the hole and gently fill with soil, being careful not to damage the roots or stem.
4. Water Immediately: Water the seedlings immediately after planting to help establish them.
5. Mulching: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and prevent weed growth.

Regardless of the method you choose, climbing nasturtiums require minimal maintenance. Regular watering during dry periods, occasional pruning, and deadheading are sufficient to enjoy their dual utility as both an edible treat and an ornamental spectacle. Remember to allow some pods to mature and drop if you desire self-seeding for future seasons.

Training Your Climbing Nasturtiums: Support and Structures

Climbing nasturtiums, with their trailing vines and vibrant blooms, bring both vertical interest and culinary value to gardens. To facilitate their characteristic climb and enhance their ornamental display, proper support is critical, along with the easy to grow strategy of sowing seeds.

• Select the Right Support: Begin by choosing a structure that complements your garden’s aesthetic. Trellises, arbors, and fences are popular choices. Ensure that the chosen support is sturdy enough to hold the plant’s weight as it matures.
• Spacing for Air Circulation: Space the plants approximately 10 to 12 inches apart. Adequate spacing prevents overcrowding and promotes air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
• Guiding the Vines: Initially, you may need to gently guide the young tendrils of the nasturtiums onto the support structure. Once they latch on, they will continue to climb independently.
• Regular Maintenance involves periodically sowing seeds.: Regularly check your climbing nasturtiums to keep the growth under control. If the plants become too dense, lightly prune them to allow light and air to reach all parts of the vine.
• Choosing the Right Material: When selecting a support material, bear in mind that nasturtiums cling best to rough surfaces like wooden trellises or netting. Smooth materials like plastic or metal may require the additional use of soft ties to help keep the vines in place.
• Support Height: Opt for a support structure that is at least 5-6 feet tall to provide ample space for vertical growth. However, the full height and spread will depend on the nasturtium variety, so refer to specific cultivar information for guidance.
• Durability: Considering that nasturtiums can reseed and become perennial in some climates, choose a durable support that can withstand multiple growing seasons without requiring replacement.

By providing suitable support and structures, gardeners will ensure their climbing nasturtiums achieve their full ornamental potential while yielding an abundance of edible flowers and leaves throughout the growing season.

Watering and Feeding: Maintaining Healthy Growth

Proper hydration and nutrition are vital in nurturing both the edible and ornamental aspects of climbing nasturtiums. While these plants are recognized for their hardiness and low maintenance, ensuring they receive the right amount of water and nutrients will promote lush foliage and a vibrant display of blooms.

Watering

A consistent watering schedule helps establish a strong root system for climbing nasturtiums. The key is to maintain moist soil without over-saturating it, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.

• Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can promote fungal diseases.
• During the growing season, water thoroughly once or twice a week, depending on climate conditions.
• Reduce watering frequency once plants are well-established, as nasturtiums are somewhat drought-tolerant.
• Utilize mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Feeding

While nasturtiums naturally thrive in poorer soils, a balanced approach to feeding can enhance their performance. Over-fertilization, especially with high nitrogen content, can lead to an excess of foliage at the expense of flowers.

• Fertilize with a low-nitrogen, balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the peak growing season.
• Alternatively, incorporate a slow-release granular fertilizer into the soil at planting time.
• For organic options, consider using compost or a compost tea as a gentle feed that also improves soil structure.
• Avoid feeding in late summer or early fall to prevent spurring new growth that could be damaged by frost.

By attentively monitoring water and nutrient levels, gardeners can ensure that their climbing nasturtiums remain healthy, yielding both tasty treats and eye-catching splendor throughout the growing season.

Managing Pests and Diseases: Keeping Your Nasturtiums Thriving

Nasturtiums, with their vibrant blooms and lily-pad-like foliage, are not only a feast for the eyes but also a target for various pests and diseases. Gardeners who cultivate these dual-purpose climbers must stay vigilant to protect their beauty and edibility.

Firstly, aphids are common pests that can weaken nasturtiums by sucking sap from the leaves and stems. These pests can be managed through regular inspections and, if necessary, by introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs that naturally control aphid populations. In severe cases, an application of neem oil or insecticidal soap may be used, although it is crucial to follow label instructions to avoid harming beneficial insects or the plant itself.

Caterpillars, including the larvae of the cabbage white butterfly, may also feast on nasturtium leaves. Handpicking these pests in the early morning or late evening, when they are most active, can help prevent severe damage.

Fungal diseases like powdery mildew, which presents as a white, powdery coating on leaves, can affect nasturtiums if air circulation is poor or conditions are too moist. Ensuring proper spacing between plants and practicing good watering techniques—aiming for the base of the plant rather than the foliage—can mitigate this risk. Should powdery mildew occur, removing affected leaves and applying a fungicide designed for edible plants can manage the issue.

Lastly, good cultural practices such as crop rotation, cleaning up plant debris, and using mulch to prevent soil-borne diseases further contribute to keeping nasturtiums thriving. A healthy climber will not only beautify a garden but can continue to provide a peppery addition to salads and garnishes throughout the growing season.

Pruning and Maintenance: Encouraging Vigorous Vines

For climbing nasturtiums to thrive and exhibit their full ornamental and edible potential, regular pruning and careful maintenance are essential. These vigorous plants can become overwhelming if not properly managed.

Pruning

Proper pruning keeps nasturtiums healthy and stimulates further blooming while maintaining a desired shape and size. Follow these steps:

• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage new blooms.
• Selective Pruning: Cut back any overgrown stems to promote air circulation and reduce pest infestations.
• Shaping: To maintain aesthetics, selectively trim stems that stray from the desired growth pattern.
• Thinning: Remove some of the older central stems to allow light and air to reach new growth.

Maintenance Tasks

Aside from pruning, routine care ensures nasturtiums remain vibrant:

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but allow it to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
• Support: Provide trellises or supports for climbing varieties to latch onto.
• Feeding: Fertilize sparingly, as too much nitrogen can encourage foliage over flower production.
• Weeding: Keep the area around the plants weed-free to minimize competition for nutrients.
• Pest Control: Regularly inspect for common pests like aphids and treat organically as needed to minimize damage.

Commitment to these practices paves the way for climbing nasturtiums to flourish, offering a dual delight of visual splendor and culinary uses. Seasoned gardeners understand that diligent pruning and consistent maintenance are cornerstones to nurturing the garden’s vivacity.

Companion Planting: Neighbors that Benefit Your Nasturtiums

Companion planting is an age-old gardening practice that pairs plants together to enhance growth, deter pests, and capitalize on the strengths of various species. Nasturtiums are particularly friendly neighbors in the garden, offering a host of benefits when planted in proximity to a variety of vegetables, fruits, and flowers.

When selecting companions for nasturtiums, consider the following:

• Cucumbers and Zucchini: These vegetables can benefit from nasturtiums as they repel pests that commonly afflict cucurbits, such as squash bugs and beetles. The nasturtium acts as a trap crop, luring aphids away from the more valuable vegetables.
• Tomatoes and Brassicas: Planting nasturtiums near tomatoes or brassicas, such as broccoli and kale, can help repel whiteflies, aphids, and other pests. The lush foliage of nasturtiums can also provide a living mulch, keeping the soil moist and cool for these companion plants.
• Beans and Radishes are also easy to grow, like as simple as sowing seeds.: Nasturtiums enhance the growth and flavor of beans and can deter bean beetles from latching onto these crops. Radishes also benefit, as nasturtiums can repel various pest species, contributing to a healthier radish crop.
• Fruit Trees: Underplanting fruit trees with nasturtium can improve soil fertility through their ability to attract pollinators. Their bright blooms draw in beneficial insects necessary for fruit set while providing a splash of color at the base of the trees.

Remember, while nasturtiums can deter many pests, they can also attract cabbage loopers and slugs. Therefore, it’s important to monitor these companion plants to ensure they remain beneficial rather than burdensome to their garden neighbors. With appropriate pairing, nasturtiums can significantly contribute to a balanced and productive ecosystem in your garden.

Harvesting and Using Nasturtiums: From Garden to Table

Nasturtiums are not only a visual treat but also a culinary delight. To harvest nasturtiums for edible purposes, it is paramount to follow the appropriate method to retain their freshness and vibrancy. The entire plant is edible, including leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds. Here is a step-by-step guide to harvesting and utilizing nasturtiums:

1. Choose the Right Time: It is best to harvest nasturtiums in the morning when their water content is highest. This ensures crispness and a burst of flavor.
2. Gentle Harvesting: Use scissors or your fingers to gently pick the flowers, leaves, and young seed pods. It is advisable not to yank the plant to avoid damage.
3. Wash Thoroughly: Rinse the harvested parts under cold water to eliminate any dirt or insects. Pat them dry gently with a paper towel.
4. Immediate Use: Nasturtiums are most flavorful when fresh. Consume them right after harvesting for the best taste in salads, as garnishes, or in sandwiches.

Culinary Uses:

• Leaves: The peppery-tasting leaves can be incorporated into salads, sandwiches, or used as a fresh herb in various recipes.
• Flowers can be propagated via the easy to grow method of sowing seeds.: Bright and spicy, these can be stuffed with cream cheese, added to salads, or crystallized for dessert decorations.
• Seed Pods: Known as “poor man’s capers,” young seed pods can be pickled for a tangy treat.

Known for their nutritional value, nasturtiums provide vitamin C and various health benefits. To enjoy these benefits, sow seeds in spring for best results. Their vibrant colors and peppery taste add a gourmet touch to dishes, making them a favorite for chefs and home cooks alike. When grown organically, without pesticides, nasturtiums help ensure that the transition from garden to table is both safe and healthful.

Propagating Climbing Nasturtiums: Growing Your Collection

Climbing nasturtiums are not only a feast for the eyes but also the palate, offering both ornamental beauty and edibility. Propagation of these vibrant climbers is a straightforward process that can easily expand a gardener’s collection.

To begin with, gardeners should select a healthy parent plant. It is vital to choose one displaying vigorous growth and abundant blooms. This ensures that cuttings or seeds sourced will inherit robust qualities.

Propagating by seed is simple:

1. Collect seeds from a mature nasturtium once the seed pods have dried on the plant.
2. Plant seeds about half an inch deep in well-draining soil, preferably in the spring after the risk of frost has passed.
3. Space seeds about 10 to 12 inches apart to allow for ample growth.
4. Water the seeds regularly, maintaining moist but not waterlogged soil until germination, which typically occurs within 10 to 14 days.

Alternatively, gardeners may use cuttings for propagation:

1. Cut a 4-inch section from the tip of a healthy nasturtium stem, making the cut just below a leaf node.
2. Remove lower leaves to expose a couple of nodes where roots will form.
3. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage faster root development.
4. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a moistened mix of peat and perlite.
5. Place the pot in a bright area, avoiding direct sunlight, and keep the soil consistently moist.

After the cutting develops a robust root system, it can be transplanted outdoors. Whether starting from seed or cuttings, climbing nasturtiums prefer a sunny location with support to climb, such as a trellis or fence. With proper care, these plants will rapidly establish, offering a cascade of color and culinary benefits.

Winter Care: Preparing Your Climbing Nasturtiums for the Cold

Climbing nasturtiums provide an aesthetic and gastronomic benefit to any garden, but these cold-sensitive perennials need adequate preparation to survive winter’s chill. Following a disciplined routine before the first frost can ensure your climbing nasturtiums remain vigorous and ready for a new season.

• Ensure plants are adequately hydrated before the winter dormancy; water them thoroughly to help prevent frost damage. However, avoid excessive watering as this can lead to root rot.
• Mulching is crucial in insulating the soil. Apply a thick layer of organic mulch such as straw or leaf mold around the base of the plants after sowing seeds and keep the weaker seedling leaving 1 per pot. This will help to regulate soil temperature and protect the roots.
• Climbing nasturtiums, if grown in regions with harsh winters, benefit from being potted and brought indoors. Before the temperatures drop, carefully dig up the plants, maintaining root integrity, and repot them in well-draining soil.
• For plants that must remain outdoors, constructing a burlap shield can provide an extra layer of protection against biting winds and frost. Erect a barrier around the nasturtiums, leaving sufficient room for air circulation.
• Cut back any dead or damaged foliage to encourage healthy growth in spring. By Snipping away these parts, the risk of disease could be minimized, making plants easy to grow and less likely to let plants dry.
• Consider applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to fortify the plants before they enter dormancy. This can give them a nutrient boost and a better chance at weathering the cold.

A strategic approach to winter care for your climbing nasturtiums not only preserves them for future growth but also ensures that they will continue to be a charming and flavorful addition to your garden when warmth returns.

Creative Garden Design Ideas with Climbing Nasturtiums

Climbing nasturtiums offer a vibrant palette of colors and edible blooms that can amplify the beauty and functionality of garden spaces. Here are some innovative ways to integrate climbing nasturtiums into your garden design:

• Vertical Accents: Utilize climbing nasturtiums to add vertical interest to your garden. Train them up trellises or along fences to create a living wall of foliage and flowers. Their spontaneous growth pattern, which makes them easy to grow, brings an element of whimsy to structured garden designs when you sow seeds.
• Archway Embellishment: Adorn garden archways and pergolas with nasturtium vines. As they climb and intertwine, they create a floral canopy that provides shade and a breathtaking display of color.
• Companion Planting: Interplant climbing nasturtiums with vegetable crops. Their vibrant blooms attract pollinators, which are essential for vegetable production, while their peppery scent can deter pests.
• Container Gardening: If space is limited, grow climbing nasturtiums in containers with vertical supports. This allows for creative placement on patios, balconies, or as part of a multi-level garden arrangement.
• Mixed Borders: Incorporate climbing nasturtiums into mixed borders with perennials and shrubs. Allow them to weave through the landscape, providing splashes of color and connecting different areas of the garden.
• Edible Landscaping: Embrace the edible nature of nasturtiums by using them as both an ornamental and culinary feature in your garden. Their leaves and flowers can be used in salads, adding a peppery kick and a decorative touch.

By integrating climbing nasturtiums into garden designs in these varied ways, gardeners can celebrate the dual delight of these plants — their ornamental beauty and their culinary uses. The versatility of nasturtiums makes them an invaluable addition to any garden wanting to combine aesthetics with practicality.

Common Challenges and Troubleshooting Tips

Climbing nasturtiums are delightful plants that grace many gardens with their vibrant colors and edible parts. Gardeners may face some challenges when growing these versatile plants, such as figuring out where to sow seeds and keep the soil apt for growth. Understanding these issues and how to address them can ensure the health and beauty of your climbing nasturtiums.

Pest Problems

• Aphids are attracted to nasturtiums and can be managed by spraying with a strong jet of water or using insecticidal soap.
• Caterpillars might chew on the leaves. Inspect plants regularly and handpick any offenders.

Disease Management

• Powdery Mildew: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Fungicidal sprays can be used as a preventive measure.
• Bacterial Leaf Spot: Remove affected leaves and avoid working with wet plants to prevent spreading.

Nutrient Issues

• Excess Fertilization: Too much nitrogen leads to lush foliage at the expense of flowers. Use a balanced or phosphorus-rich fertilizer sparingly.
• Deficiencies: Yellowing leaves can suggest a lack of nutrients. A complete balanced fertilizer can rectify this.

Environmental Stresses

• Insufficient Light: Nasturtiums require full sun to bloom well. Relocate plants if they are in too much shade.
• Over/Under Watering: Soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Adjust watering schedules during extreme weather conditions.

Support System Failures

• Weak Structures: Climbing nasturtiums need sturdy supports. Regularly check and strengthen trellises or supports as plants grow.

Planting Issues

• Incorrect Spacing: Overcrowding can lead to poor air circulation and increased disease risk. Follow proper spacing guidelines.
• The soil preparation can be poor when you attempt to poke seeds into well-worked soil.: Loosen soil and ensure adequate drainage before planting to encourage healthy root development.

Addressing these common challenges with appropriate troubleshooting steps can enhance the ornamental beauty and edible yield of climbing nasturtiums, adding delight to any garden or culinary experience.

Conclusion: The Joy of Growing Climbing Nasturtiums

The cultivation of climbing nasturtiums offers a dual delight that combines the aesthetic and the edible into a single, vibrant gardening experience. As an addition to any garden, these plants present a cascade of benefits that extend from their visual appeal to their practical uses.

• Climbing nasturtiums serve not only as a stunning ornamental display with their vivid blossoms but also provide a peppery zest to dishes when their flowers and leaves are harvested.
• These plants are a boon to gardeners seeking low-maintenance flora. Their minimal needs for fertile soil and their resistance to pests alleviate the gardener’s workload and make them a steadfast favorite.
• Notably, climbing nasturtiums become a living artwork, gracing trellises and fences with their twining tendrils and bright blossoms, transforming mundane garden structures into captivating features.
• Ecologically, they play a substantial role, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, thus promoting biodiversity and the health of the surrounding plants.
• As an educational tool, growing nasturtiums offers an excellent opportunity for gardeners of all ages to observe the lifecycle of a plant, understanding the intricacies of growth from seeding to blooming.

The joy of growing climbing nasturtiums transcends mere gardening; it is an ongoing journey of discovery, sensory enhancement, and culinary exploration. Their hearty nature and bountiful contributions make them an essential component for any gardener seeking to merge the beautiful with the beneficial, illustrating that plant cultivation can be as enriching to the spirit as it is to the palate and the soil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are climbing nasturtiums?

A: Climbing nasturtiums are a variety of nasturtium that have the ability to climb and are often used for both ornamental and edible purposes.

Q: When should I sow climbing nasturtium seeds?

A: It is best to sow climbing nasturtium seeds in the spring, after the last expected frost date in your area.

Q: How should I sow climbing nasturtium seeds?

A: You can sow climbing nasturtium seeds by poking them into well-worked soil about 1 inch deep and covering the soil firmly over the seeds.

Q: What type of soil is best for growing climbing nasturtiums?

A: Climbing nasturtiums can grow in any well-drained soil, making them quite easy to cultivate.

Q: Do climbing nasturtiums require any training for growth?

A: Yes, you may need to train young plants onto their supports with loose ties as they start to climb and bloom.

Q: When should I transplant young climbing nasturtium plants?

A: Once the young climbing nasturtium plants have grown a few inches and have several sets of leaves, they can be transplanted into their final growing location.

Q: How should I care for climbing nasturtiums during the blooming season?

A: During the blooming season, you should allow the plants to dry out slightly between waterings to encourage healthy blooming.

Q: Can climbing nasturtiums be grown in pots?

A: Yes, climbing nasturtiums can be grown in pots of well-drained seed starting mix. You can sow 2 seeds each in individual 4-inch pots and later transplant them if needed.

Q: Should I pinch out weaker seedlings when growing climbing nasturtiums?

A: Yes, it is recommended to pinch out the weaker seedlings, leaving one healthy seedling in each pot to ensure robust growth.

Q: Can climbing nasturtiums be grown for both ornamental and edible purposes?

A: Yes, climbing nasturtiums are known for their charming soft flowers and can be grown for both ornamental beauty and as a culinary ingredient.