Nasturtium shoots: How to Grow, Harvest, Fertilize, and Use Nasturtium shoots

Growing Nasturtium Shoots: A Beginner's Guide

As a gardener, there's nothing quite like the thrill of watching your seeds sprout into vibrant, edible plants. One of my favorite varieties to grow is the nasturtium, a colorful and versatile crop that's easy to cultivate and fun to eat. In this article, I'll share my experience growing nasturtium shoots, from sowing the seeds to harvesting the delicious results.

Choosing the Right Variety

Before I begin, it's essential to choose the right variety of nasturtium for growing shoots. I prefer the 'Empress of India' or 'Jewel of Africa' varieties, as they are known for their compact growth, flavorful leaves, and striking flowers. These varieties are also relatively easy to find at most nurseries or online seed stores.

Sowing the Seeds

Sowing nasturtium seeds is a straightforward process. I usually start by sowing the seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in my area. You can also sow the seeds directly in the garden, but this method can be less reliable.

To sow the seeds, I fill a small pot or cell tray with a good quality seed starting mix. I then sprinkle the seeds onto the surface, gently firming the soil to ensure good contact with the seeds. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as this can lead to fungal growth and poor germination.

Providing the Right Conditions

Nasturtium seeds require a period of cold stratification to germinate. To achieve this, I place the pot or cell tray in the refrigerator for 2-4 weeks. Once the seeds have germinated, I transfer them to a sunny windowsill or under grow lights.

Nasturtium shoots require a warm and dry environment to thrive. I usually keep the pot or cell tray in a bright, dry spot with temperatures between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C).

Caring for the Seedlings

As the seedlings emerge, I make sure to provide them with plenty of light and water. Nasturtium shoots are sensitive to overwatering, so I make sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. A good rule of thumb is to water the seedlings when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

I also fertilize the seedlings with a balanced fertilizer once a week to promote healthy growth. A side note: nasturtiums are heavy feeders, so be prepared to provide them with plenty of nutrients.

Harvesting the Shoots

Nasturtium shoots are ready to harvest when they reach 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) in length. To harvest, I simply snip off the shoots at the base of the plant using scissors or a sharp knife.

The shoots can be used raw in salads, sautéed as a side dish, or added to soups and stews. I also use them as a garnish for sandwiches and wraps. The leaves and flowers can be used in salads, as a topping for soups, or as a garnish for cocktails.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when growing nasturtium shoots:

• Nasturtiums are a natural pest repellent, so they can be used to deter aphids, whiteflies, and other pests from your garden.
• You can also use nasturtiums as a trap crop to lure pests away from your other vegetables.
• Nasturtiums are a great addition to companion planting, as they repel nematodes and other pests that target vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers.
• If you want to grow nasturtiums as a cut flower, wait until the flowers have bloomed and the seed pods have formed. You can then dry the flowers and use them in arrangements or as a garnish.

Conclusion

Growing nasturtium shoots is a fun and rewarding experience that's perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike. By following these simple steps and tips, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious and nutritious nasturtium shoots. Happy growing!