When to Plant Nasturtiums in Kentucky
Edible flowers that double as pest traps. Plant near vegetables to lure aphids away from your food crops.
The Short Answer
Kentucky Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of Kentucky you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Kentucky | 6a, 6b | Apr 15 - May 1 | Oct 5 - Oct 20 |
| Central Kentucky | 6b | Apr 10 - Apr 25 | Oct 10 - Oct 25 |
| Western Kentucky | 6b, 7a | Apr 5 - Apr 20 | Oct 15 - Nov 1 |
Nasturtiums Planting Schedule for Kentucky
Northern Kentucky (Zones 6a, 6b)
Average last frost: Apr 15 - May 1 · Average first frost: Oct 5 - Oct 20
Central Kentucky (Zones 6b)
Average last frost: Apr 10 - Apr 25 · Average first frost: Oct 10 - Oct 25
Western Kentucky (Zones 6b, 7a)
Average last frost: Apr 5 - Apr 20 · Average first frost: Oct 15 - Nov 1
Growing Nasturtiums in Kentucky
Nasturtiums in Kentucky's Climate
Nasturtiums thrive from spring through frost in your climate. They prefer poor soil — don't fertilize or you'll get leaves without flowers. The trailing types spill beautifully from containers. Plant near tomatoes and squash to draw aphids away from your vegetable crops.
Soil Considerations for Kentucky
Clay soils over limestone bedrock. Naturally alkaline. Good for many vegetables with amendment. Excellent for root crops in some areas. Make sure soil has warmed to at least 55°F before planting nasturtiums outside.
Kentucky Climate & Growing Season
Mild, four-season climate. Adequate rainfall. Hot, humid summers. Good growing season. Nasturtiums cannot tolerate any frost, so wait until all frost danger has passed before transplanting outside. Watch local forecasts carefully in spring.
Growing season length varies across Kentucky: Northern Kentucky (6a, 6b) has a last frost around Apr 15 - May 1, while Western Kentucky (6b, 7a) sees frost end around Apr 5 - Apr 20. This difference matters for nasturtiums — transplant timing shifts by several weeks across the state.
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
Plant nasturtiums alongside these companions for better growth:
The Bottom Line
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026