When to Plant Nasturtiums
Edible flowers that double as pest traps. Plant near vegetables to lure aphids away from your food crops.
The Short Answer
How to Grow Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are entirely edible — flowers, leaves, and unripe seed pods all have a peppery, watercress-like flavor that brightens salads and garnishes. They're also exceptional trap crops: aphids prefer nasturtiums over nearly everything else in the garden, concentrating the pests where you can manage them away from your vegetables. Don't fertilize — nitrogen-rich soil produces all leaves and no flowers. Direct sow after frost; nasturtiums transplant poorly due to their taproot. Alaska series has variegated foliage that's ornamental even before blooming.
Starting Seeds Indoors
Begin nasturtiums seeds indoors 2 weeks before your average last frost date. Seeds need soil temperatures of at least 55°F to germinate, which typically takes 7-12 days. Provide 12 hours of light per day using a south-facing window or grow lights.
Transplanting
Move seedlings outside 1 weeks after your last frost date, once soil temperatures reach 55°F. Harden off seedlings for 5 days before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
Direct Sowing
Nasturtiums can be direct sown 1 weeks after your last frost date. Plant seeds 0.5" deep, spaced 12" apart.
Growing Tips
Both flowers and young leaves are edible with a peppery taste. Thrives in poor soil — too much nitrogen means all leaves, no flowers.
Companion Planting
Good companions:
Nasturtiums Planting Dates by State
Click your state for nasturtiums planting dates specific to your location:
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026