When to Plant Nasturtium Seedlings

Nasturtiums are hardy, cheerful annuals that are perfect for adding color to your garden. They are easy to grow and can be planted from seed directly into the soil or started indoors and transplanted as seedlings. If you want to start your nasturtiums indoors, it is important to know when to plant the seedlings to ensure the best possible growth.

Starting Nasturtium Seeds Indoors

Before you can plant nasturtium seedlings, you need to start your seeds indoors. Nasturtiums can take anywhere from 7-14 days to germinate, so it is important to start your seeds around 4-6 weeks before you plan to transplant them into your garden. Fill your seed-starting trays with a quality potting mix and plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep. Keep the soil evenly moist and place the trays in a well-lit location, such as a sunny windowsill.

Transplanting Nasturtium Seedlings

Once your nasturtium seedlings are 4-6 weeks old and have grown their first set of true leaves, they are ready to be transplanted into your garden. The best time to transplant them is when all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. This is usually around late spring or early summer, depending on your location. Choose a location in your garden that receives full sun to partial shade and has well-draining soil.

Caring for Nasturtium Seedlings

After transplanting your nasturtium seedlings, it is important to keep them well-watered and fertilized. Nasturtiums prefer soil that is evenly moist but not waterlogged, so make sure to water them deeply once a week if there has been no rainfall. You can also fertilize your seedlings with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to promote healthy growth and bloom production.

Harvesting Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums have vibrant, edible flowers that can be used in salads or as a garnish. The flowers have a peppery, slightly spicy flavor that adds a unique twist to any dish. To harvest your nasturtium flowers, simply pick them off the plant as they bloom. You can also harvest the leaves and young stems of the plant for use in salads or as a garnish.

In conclusion, if you want to start nasturtium seedlings indoors, it is important to do so 4-6 weeks before you plan to transplant them into your garden. The best time to transplant them is when all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. Keep your nasturtium seedlings well-watered and fertilized to promote healthy growth and harvest the flowers, leaves, and young stems for use in your kitchen.