Grow a garden filled with these gorgeous Nasturtium flowers, from freshly harvested Tropaeolum majus flower seeds. Nasturtium Jewel Mixture will produce unique flowers, in an assortment of warm colors, such as red, yellow, gold and orange. The flowers themselves open up to a diameter of roughly 2 or 3 inches wide, forming 3 petals on the bottom and 2 on the top. The plants will reach a mature height of roughly 12 to 18 inches tall, and spread a good 12 inches wide.
Categorized as an annual flowering plant, Nasturtium, Jewel Mixture will grow quickly from freshly harvested seeds. The plants will then bloom profusely through the summer months, later wilting with the first frost. Nasturtium seeds can be harvested at the end of the season, to regrow fresh plants the following year. The plants can often drop their seeds to the bare ground beneath, allowing new plant life to establish naturally, after the harsh temperatures of winter have passed.
Nasturtium, Jewel Mixture is not only a beautiful flower in the garden, but it is also a colorful addition to many garnishes, salads and other culinary dishes. The seeds, stems, leaves and flower heads are all edible, providing you with a sweet, yet spicy flavoring. The leaves and stems have a hot, peppery taste, while the seeds can be a substitute for capers. The flowers have a more mild flavor and are a perfect addition to omelettes & salads.
Nasturtium plants, such as the Jewel Mixture will attract all sorts of butterflies to the garden. Their leaves are often eaten by caterpillars, and other insects. However, be aware that these plants can attract some pesky insects, such as slugs and aphids. You’ll be surprised to learn that they will cling to the leaves, like a moth to a flame. But keep in mind that this can be a good thing if you grow cabbage, or other crops. Many gardeners will use Nasturtium plants as a sacrificial magnet for these insects, so that their main crops can flourish.
Quick Facts
- Type: Flower
- Color: Mixture
- Height: 12″ to 18″ Tall
- Width: 12″ Spread
- Season: Annual
- Zones: 3 to 10
- Environment: Full Sun
Sowing The Seed
Nasturtium seeds have a tough outer shell, which can be scarified to improve germination. Nick the seeds with a knife, or sandpaper and soak them in warm water overnight. Once this has been done, you can sow the seeds either indoors, or directly outdoors. If started indoors, sow the seeds in peat pots, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last forst. Peat pots will help prevent root shock when transplanted. Sow the seeds at a depth of 1/2” under topsoil. Transplant entire pots, or direct sow outdoors when the weather has warmed and all danger of frost has passed.
Growing Conditions
Nasturtium will thrive in areas of full sunlight, with temperatures of at least 65F or higher. They require poor soils, which will promote more blooms. The sowing medium should be well drained as well. To increase your drainage, we recommend that you add a light compost to any areas containing hard, compact soil. Water the seeds daily until germination has successfully occurred.
Germination & Growth
Nasturtium seeds typically take anywhere between 7 and 10 days to germinate. The plants will grow to a mature height of 12 to 18 inches tall, spreading roughly 12 inches wide. They can be spaced about 12 inches apart from one another. The blooms of this mixture will open up to 2 – 3 inches wide, displaying red, gold, orange & yellow flowers.