Nasturtium Seeds (Heirloom)

The best heirloom nasturtiums are beautiful and edible

Nasturtiums are beautiful to look at, but did you know the blossoms are also edible? Heirloom nasturtium blossoms provide salads and beverages a spicy, peppery taste while also providing nourishment. Although most people use nasturtium blossoms as a garnish, the entire plant is delicious. Heirloom nasturtiums are abundant in vitamin C, iron, and other trace elements, and they provide a variety of health advantages. Consuming nasturtium, a known antibiotic, may help fight the flu and defend against viruses.

Deter pests with heirloom nasturtium

You want to keep insects out of your garden but don't want to use pesticides. Try your hand at cultivating heirloom nasturtiums. Nasturtiums' delicious aroma attracts pests, diverting them away from other plants in your yard. But that's not all—nasturtiums also attract predatory insects that eat bugs.

Heirloom nasturtiums are a heat-loving annual that is known to self-seed and are hardy in virtually all zones. After the final spring frost, direct sow heirloom nasturtium seeds, or start them four to six weeks ahead of time inside. For the fastest germination, soak nasturtium seeds overnight.

The best growing conditions for heirloom nasturtium

Nasturtiums, a wildflower endemic to mountain slopes, prefer weak, somewhat acidic soils. Choose a planting location that receives full to partial light and has a drainage system. To allow mature plants to spread, sow seeds a half-inch deep and at least 10 inches apart. Heirloom nasturtium seedlings should be transplanted at the same time. Water nasturtiums on a regular basis, but don't overwater them. To prolong blooming, deadhead wasted blooms. Nasturtiums will bloom from April until the first frost if properly cared for. To keep the vining plant from spreading, cut back your heirloom nasturtium leaves on a regular basis.

The varied colors and uses of heirloom nasturtium

Heirloom nasturtiums come in a variety of hues, from solid tones of gold, orange, and red to variegated kinds in pink and blush, as well as mixtures of any color combination imaginable. Nasturtium blossoms look attractive in delicate cut flower bouquets and go well with pansies. Heirloom nasturtium adds a unique and fascinating textured element to bouquets.

Plant heirloom nasturtiums in hanging baskets with the stems falling down gently, or in a location where ground cover is needed. Nasturtiums will cheerfully take over any available space, displacing weeds and keeping topsoil from washing away. Make sure to get a few extra seeds for whatever reason you're planting nasturtiums. Choose from Eden Brothers' 20 varieties for color and aroma throughout the season.

For more information about planting, growing, and harvesting heirloom nasturtium seeds, see the Nasturtium Seeds Planting Guide.